‘Thatch Roofs and Ironwood Posts’: Exhibition Opening

n 14th March the National Gallery launched our latest exhibition, ‘Thatch Roofs & Ironwood Posts’, exploring Caymanian vernacular architecture through the eyes of visual artists. 

The exhibition showcases architectural studies of traditional construction methods and styles alongside representational watercolours that celebrate the beauty of the Caymanian homestead and contemporary works that address both the substantial loss of built heritage and efforts to preserve surviving buildings. The show also includes an interactive room called ‘The Learning Lab’ which allows visitors to explore the National Trust for the Cayman Islands’ historic register, sketch their own architectural drawings, and browse John Doak and Ed Oliver’s publications.

Featured artists include James Adams, John Doak, Bendel Hydes, Raphael Powery, Joanne Sibley, Jeremy Sibley, Carlos V. Garcia, Debbie Chase Van Der Bol, Maureen Anderson Berry, Sue Widmer, Patrick Quin, Betty Wood, Janet Walker, C.E. Whitney, Ed Oliver, Charles Long, Shane “Dready” Aquart, Yonier Powery, Simon Tatum, Wray Banker, Chris Mann and Gordon Solomon.

Team NGCI was joined by our loyal Gallery Members, artists and supporters for a lively evening of art appreciation, dialogue, and Learning Lab engagement as the show was unveiled to the public. For their kind attendance and support, we extend our sincere gratitude to Her Excellency The Governor, Mrs. Jane Owen, Honourable Minister for Youth, Sports and Heritage Mr. Isaac Rankine, Deputy Chief Officer for Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport and Development Mr. Tristan Hydes, Acting Director of the Cayman Islands National Museum and MYSH Senior Policy Analyst Ms. Tunisia Barnes, Environmental Programmes Manager of the National Trust for the Cayman Islands Mrs. Catherine Childs, NGCI Board Chairperson Mr. Carl Brown and Board Member Mrs. Theresa Broderick.

‘Thatch Roofs & Ironwood Posts’ runs until 12th July 2024. Visit our website to learn more about the show and see what educational events and programmes are next up on the calendar!

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What’s On: Exhibitions

“Thatch Roofs and Ironwood Posts” Learning Lab 14 March – 12 JulyVisit the Learning Lab in ‘Thatch Roofs & Ironwood Posts’ to dive into the world of Caymanian traditional architecture. Engage with the National Trust for the Cayman Islands’ historic archiving projects, view technical sketches and video descriptions of four vernacular house styles by celebrated Cayman architect John Doak, flip through Ed Oliver’s stunning pencil drawings of Caymanian buildings, and try your hand at sketching your own. Thank you to generous exhibition contributors the National Trust for the Cayman Islands and John Doak for their support of this interactive and educational space.

Late Opening Hours25 April, 5PM – 8PMCan’t make it to the Gallery during our regular opening hours? We’re open late! Enjoy an after-hours visit to view our latest exhibitions, “Thatch Roofs & Ironwood Posts” and “The Cauling”, plus the National Collection exhibition, “The Ties that Bind”. Admission is free.

What’s On: Education

Little Cayman and Cayman BracSeniors Tour & Tea EventsOlder persons in Little Cayman and Cayman Brac are invited to join us for a tour of our current Sister Islands exhibitions, followed by complimentary tea, coffee, and light bites. Kindly sponsored by EY. Little Cayman: 9 April, 10AM-12PMLittle Cayman Museum Cayman Brac: 11 April, 10AM-12PMCayman Brac Beach Resort For more information, contact [email protected] or 945-8111.

Teen Wellness Art Workshop20 April, 10AM – 12PMThe National Gallery partners with the Wellness Centre for a free art workshop designed to foster connectivity and wellness in teenagers aged 13-15. Guest instructed by Gianna Whittaker.  To register, contact the National Gallery at [email protected] or 945-8111, or the Wellness Centre at [email protected]. Plein Air Painting at Historic HomesApril – JulyThe National Gallery alongside artists Raphael Powery and John Broad host a series of free paint-a-long sessions at historic homes. Inspired by the ‘en plein air’ watercolour paintings featured in ‘Thatch Roofs & Ironwood Posts’, these sessions are not formal classes, but opportunities to share creative practice outdoors in a cultural and historic environment with likeminded art-lovers. Visit our website for details on upcoming sessions at www.nationalgallery.org.ky/whats-on.

News & Special Features

The NGCI is seeking applicants for the position of Arts Administrator (Fundraising & Events). The role will entail undertaking administrative duties that support fundraising and event activities at NGCI. 

For more information, click here.