The new facility for the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands, opened its doors for the first time at a special Donors’ Reception held on Friday, 27 January. The invitation-only event was a chance for individuals and corporations who donated to the building fund, as well as local dignitaries and artists to get a sneak-preview of the new buildings and gardens. The facility officially opens to the general public today.
The opening of the new National Gallery building and gardens marks the culmination of more than a decade of work, planning and fundraising.
More than 200 people attended the Donor’s Reception. Arriving from 6pm onward, attendees had ample opportunity to browse the two exhibitions as well as the rest of the facility. Works by a number of local artists spanning several decades of the islands’ history are displayed on the upper level. These works are all part of the National Collection which has a permanent home at the National Gallery for the first time ever. The collection includes woven thatch baskets, sculptures and installations as well as canvasses large and small.
On the lower level, the first of the temporary exhibitions was on display: a collection entitled Circumnavigating the Globe, by Caymanian-born artist Bendel Hydes.
The Education Centre, comprising a lecture theatre, an art studio and an arts and culture library were also open with National Gallery staff on hand to offer information on their programmes and courses.
Attendees were also invited to tour the sculpture garden outside before sitting down for the official addresses and presentations to donors.
A welcome speech was given by NGCI Vice Chairman, Desmond Kinch, followed by a short address by Governor Duncan Taylor. MLA Mark Scotland, Minister for Health, Environment, Youth, Sports and Culture, followed by thanking the many donors and confirming Government’s continued support of the National Gallery. A special mention was made of the guest of honour, Helen Harquail, who donated the land on which the facility is built and of two former NGCI Directors who were present, Leslie Bigelman and Nancy Barnard.
NGCI Director Natalie Urquhart closed the addresses by thanking all those who donated funds, time and resources to make the project a reality, describing it as “an enormous community accomplishment … a monument to each and every one of you.”
A grand opening for members and potential members will be held today from 6pm to 8pm. The NGCI’s continuing education programme begins in February.
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