Art lovers are invited to appreciate and even purchase the work of seven talented artists during an annual showcase this week.
The Art Exhibition is being held over three days at Arrows Manshop in Sweenys, beginning on Thursday, 14 March, and running until Saturday, 16 March.
Organiser Serene Leonard, who is a skilled painter herself, told Montserrat Focus that artists from both Montserrat and the diaspora have their work on display.
They are Joseph ‘Pops’ Morris, Clover Lea, Chamella Carlisle, Sonia Bramble, Vinceroy Cassell, and Anita Valechha.
Leonard established the exhibition three years ago after realising there was not a supportive platform for artists – particularly the younger generation – in Montserrat.
“The term ‘struggling artist’ is true, and without support, it wouldn’t be possible for those on island to develop their craft,” she said.
Art materials are very expensive on Montserrat and often not available and the few products that are available are expensive and poor quality, Leonard added.
“The fear of messing up keeps a lot of artists back, so you can imagine this is even worse when the artists can’t afford any error,” she said.
A viable career
One of the biggest things that the exhibition does is to support the personal development of the artists and allow them to gain patrons, Leonard said.
“The other is that the younger generation can see art as a viable career,” she added.
Leonard, whose work is also on display at the exhibition, has enjoyed art since she was a child.
She started out drawing, but eight years ago her focus changed to painting.
“I started with acrylic paintings and last year progressed to oil paints,” she said, citing Picasso as one of her favourite artists.
“I usually paint things from my subconscious with a bit of surrealism, but as of late, I have been more focused on techniques over expression.”
Leonard’s work includes a series of oil on canvas made with volcanic ash, depicting masquerade dancers, entitled ‘Dancing in the ashes’.
“Masquerade holds a crucial place in our history, embodying resilience through dance in the face of oppression and adversity,” she said.
“In 2024, I contemplate them as an unwavering pillar in our roots, adapting alongside us through crises and periods of oppression.”
The Art Exhibition is open Friday and Saturday, 15 and 16 March, from 12-6pm. Admission is free and complementary local wine is available.
