Barbadian women in art shine in Powerhouse exhibition

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he artistic impact of 22 artists, whose collective contributions span 65 years, has been celebrated.

Powerhouses: Barbadian Women in Visual Arts opened on Saturday evening at the Queen’s Park Gallery against the backdrop of International Women’s Day celebrations. The initiative forms part of the National Cultural Foundation’s (NCF) ongoing mission to honour and uplift female creatives.

The exhibition, the third of its kind to be held in March to commemorate women, recognised the talents of stalwarts like Goldie Spieler, Hartley Marshall-Alleyne and Ireka Jelani with members of the equally talented younger brigade, among them Shanika Grimes and Sheena Rose.

Shanika Grimes (right) is among the artists whose work is featured.

In her opening remarks, curator Oneka Small said, “The show reminds us of the shoulders we stand on, the pioneers, and acknowledges the present agents making an impact and change in the industry.”

Heralding the substantial contributions of the artists, Small added, “They have enriched themselves and countless others, which is one of the mandates of the show and that underpins the policy of the NCF. Development, sustainability, [and] economic success [are] all models to be studied, and we will be doing that over the course of the exhibition. We have video documentaries that are going to be made of each of the artists.”

Chief Executive Officer of the NCF Carol Roberts emphasised the vital role of women in shaping artistic narratives.

“The creativity, resilience, and unique perspective of artists, who are women, continue to shape our existence, challenge norms and narratives, shape advocacy and change, and inspire and uplift generations across all genders.”

Roberts described the showcased works as inspirational, influential, brilliant, thought-provoking, powerful, and using local parlance, ‘powful’.

Rhesa Garnes sang several original pieces.

Paying tribute to the artists, Roberts affirmed, “We see your work and we honour you. You have been powerhouses in the visual art community in Barbados and beyond. You have all shown tenacity, resilience, flexibility, service to others, grace, limitless creativity, and consistent passion.”

She reiterated, “The NCF is committed to telling your stories, preserving your legacy, and supporting your vision.”

The organisation plans to purchase one work from each artist in the exhibition. For those whose work is not for sale, Roberts announced, “We will present you with a purchase award up to a value of $3,000, redeemable at this exhibition or with any of the artists exhibiting in this space.”

Juliana Inniss was among the recipients.

Encouraging continued investment within this sphere, she urged, “Let us commit to supporting all women in the arts and culture. Let their stories and contributions continue to inspire and uplift us and the generations to come. Let us recognize the importance of their voices echoing throughout their work. Let us be mindful that there could be no real equality, no justice, no inclusion, no diversity, no tolerance, no art, no true reflection of our humanity without the voice, the touch, and the creativity of artists who are women.”

Among those whose work is on display is the late Jill Walker, whose contribution to the artistic landscape will be commemorated with the soon-to-be-opened Jill Walker Visitor Centre.

Entertainment was provided by the Empressive Roots band, with Rhesa Garnes on lead vocals. Appearing with the ensemble were steel pannist Rojenna Holligan and singer Carol George.

The exhibition ends on April 5^th. (STT)