National Gallery of the Cayman Islands: August 2023 Newsletter

ArchiveOct 7, 2023

2 min read

Monthly News: October 2023

81° West: Cartographic Exploration in Contemporary Caymanian Art

Commencing with an intimate opening on October 5th, "81 West" leads visitors on a captivating journey through time, tracing the evolution of maps and their profound influence on Caymanian society. The event brought together NGCI staff, members, volunteers, Government dignitaries, sponsors, and artists, fostering a sense of unity and shared appreciation for the practice of cartography.

Within this exhibition, we uncover the similarities between the pursuits of cartographers and artists. Both embark on journeys of exploration, seeking to interpret the world around them, capturing its intricacies, subtleties, and hidden marvels. They breathe life into landscapes, revealing fresh insights and interpretations as they intimately connect with their surroundings.

The selection of work on display stands to ask viewers to consider the profound connections woven between cartography and the creative spirit. The juxtaposition of contemporary artworks and antique maps within this exhibition creates a captivating dialogue exploring these connections between the past and the present, the empirical and the artistic.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Honorable Bernie Bush MP, Honorable Kenneth Bryan MP, Deputy Governor Honorable Franz Manderson, and the esteemed Governor of Cayman, Jane Owen, for gracing the opening of this exhibition with their presence. Their attendance added a significant dimension to this evening of exploration and creativity, illuminating the event with their unique perspectives.