Governor looks forward to expanding art collection

(CNS): Admitting that he has no artistic talent of his own, the Cayman Islands new governor, Duncan Taylor, has said he is really excited about this weekend’s art event, which will be taking place on his new front yard, as he and his wife are keen collectors. Taylor said that over the years they have built up an eclectic mix of work acquired during their various postings, from Cuba to Hungary. “I am really looking forward to seeing what will be on show on Saturday at the art@governor’s, and it will be my first opportunity to meet local artists and see what they are doing,” he said. Taylor told CNS that he was encouraged by the enthusiasm surrounding the event and understood that it was an important date in the year.

"I am really happy that we are getting to host this so early on,” he said, adding that he felt it was crucial to encourage and support creativity as the arts are an important element of local society. Taylor also said he and his wife were keen to acquire some pieces from the Cayman Islands while he is here to add to their collection.

Taylor and his wife Marie-Beatrice will be hosting their first art@governor’s along with the National Gallery this Saturday (30 January) on the grounds in front of Government House. Over 100 artists will be exhibiting and some 2,500 visitors are expected at what is considered the islands’ premier visual arts festival, held annually on the last Saturday of January. The visual art forms will include paintings, ceramics, sculpture and leatherwork, thatch work, body paintings, jewellery, quilts, photography and handicrafts.  

Organisers said that this year for the first time the event is spilling across the road to Governors Square, enabling the gallery to house more artists and exhibits then ever before. Art demonstrations, displays and activities will be enjoyed between both areas, and Governors Square will be hosting commercial sales for the first time.  

This year’s theme is “Conserving Cayman’s Oceans”, which explains the creation of giant paper mache sea creature by Walkers Art Club; an underwater mural at the National Gallery Creation Station; and fun educational activities provided by the Ritz Carlton – Grand Cayman’s Ambassadors of the Environment programme and the Department of the Environment. World renown artist Wyland (www.wyland.com), this year’s International Scuba Diving Hall of Fame inductee, will be on hand to talk about his work as the 2010 ‘Featured Artist’; and Cayman Brac’s own Martin Keeley will direct a performance exploring the mysteries of the ocean centred around a 40-foot shark.

There will also be storytelling by Twyla Vargas, pottery making , traditional craft demonstrations, and free catboat rides, courtesy of the Cayman Islands Catboat Club, plus music from Pandemonium Steel Band and One World Entertainment.

The event is free of charge and open to the public from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Parking is provided courtesy of Regatta and traffic police will be on hand to guide visitors safely between the two locations. For more information, to volunteer, or to reserve a booth, please email Kerri-Anne at intern.ng@candw.ky  or call 945 8111.