Drivers, cyclists, joggers and walkers who frequent the area of South Church Street near Smith Barcadere will already be familiar with the impromptu art gallery outside the home of ALT and Melissa Thompson.
The fence and main gates are decorated with a mixture of stuffed toys, pictures, Cayman flags and uplifting messages from locals and people around the world. Every week, more items are added, making the display an ever-evolving symbol of positivity at a time when people need some joy in their lives.
One may wonder how the project began. As they say, a child shall lead them. It was the Thompsons’ 9-year-old daughter, Cori, who wanted to do something for the community to show her support for Cayman and the world.
“Cori saw pictures of the pop-up hospitals all over the world,” said Melissa. “We were both emotional, and she turned to me and said, ‘Mummy, I want to draw angels and put them all over.’
“So, about three weeks ago, we got the idea of reaching out to all the people we know and asking them to send a beautiful message, drawing or inspirational picture to us. We also asked them to sign whatever they sent and to say where it was from.”
Melissa and Cori started with pictures of the world, the flags and the ‘We Love You Cayman’ signs, but then the emails began coming in with letters and images from friends and family.
“It was wonderful to see them,” Melissa said, “and Cori was thrilled with the response.” For Melissa, it was lovely to see her daughter so focussed on and enthusiastic about the project.
“Cori is an only child, so of course she misses her friends and family terribly,” Melissa said. “This project has made her feel good, in that she is giving to her community.”
Looking at the pieces presently on display, one can find notes from Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, and, of course, Cayman.
Every message and image that comes in is laminated by the mother-and-daughter team, so it doesn’t fall prey to the elements, and then it is carefully attached to the posts of the gate and fence.
Melissa has been so happy with the feedback that she is glad they have the space available to display everything. “We’re extending from the gate along the fences,” she said, after recently attaching another 35 posters. “It’s a great feeling.”
Note: Although the public is welcome to take a look at the gallery, they are reminded that this should only be when they are authorised to be in the area and they should not congregate at any time. Please maintain social distancing.
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