This year visitors to the Cayman Islands National Gallery can explore several captivating exhibitions. These include:
Tangled World
This noteworthy exhibition delves into Cayman’s mangrove habitats’ intricate beauty and profound significance and features works by local artists Babbity Barwick and Linda McCann.
Other exhibitions include:
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- 81° West – Highlights cartographic explorations in contemporary Caymanian art
- The Ties That Bind – Is a journey through Cayman’s National Collection.
- Home & Hearth – provides glimpses into architectural scenes
- Days Gone By – a look a historical photographs from the Cayman Islands National Archive
The Gallery also offers a variety of workshops and courses catering to students of all skill levels. These workshops are often themed around the Gallery’s major temporary exhibitions and cover various artistic disciplines, including drawing, watercolour painting, life drawing, art history, ceramics, and sewing.
The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands offers a rich and diverse experience, blending the local artistic heritage with contemporary expressions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the depths of Cayman’s art and culture or seeking to develop your artistic skills, the Gallery’s exhibitions and workshops have something for everyone.
Annual events
The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands hosts several annual events that have become staples in the cultural calendar of the islands, drawing in art enthusiasts and community members alike.
The Big Art Auction
One of the key annual events is the Big Art Auction, held biennially in October. This fundraising event focuses on raising funds for developing the National Gallery’s Permanent Collection and supporting specific educational programming needs. Given the Gallery’s role as the leading visual arts museum in the Cayman Islands, it represents a significant occasion in the country’s arts calendar.
Tea Party
Another notable event is the Tea Party, held each March in a different private garden. This event has become a highlight of the Cayman’s social calendar, where 200 guests explore beautiful gardens before enjoying a traditional English-style afternoon tea complete with live music. The Tea Party is not just a social gathering but also a fundraiser to support the Gallery’s educational programmes and promote the appreciation of visual arts in the Cayman Islands.
The Annual Costume Gala
The Annual Costume Gala, which takes place on the last Friday of November, is a creative and vibrant event that welcomes guests to the National Gallery gardens for a night of imaginative costumes and fundraising. Guests are encouraged to engage with a specific theme each year, bringing creativity and flair to this gala evening. The event includes a welcome reception, dinner with entertainment, a live auction, and dancing, with proceeds benefiting the Gallery’s educational programmes and supporting free admission to exhibitions and programming throughout the year.
These events not only serve as key fundraisers for the National Gallery but also highlight the vibrant art culture in the Cayman Islands, bringing together art, creativity, and community engagement.