The art and cultural heritage of a Caribbean island will be the focus of an exhibition in the gallery of the Hope College De Pree Art Center.
The gallery will feature “Island Reflections: The Contemporary Art of Curaçao” from Aug. 19, through Oct. 1. On Sept. 9, there will be an artist talk at 4 p.m. and an opening reception at 5 p.m.
The exhibit, artist talk and reception are open to the public. Admission is free.
This exhibit focuses on ten actively working studio artists. The unifying theme of this exhibition is reflection/identity, which is explored in depth by the featured artists. Being part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Curacao visual culture has been influenced directly and/or indirectly built its Dutch community and heritage. Featured Artists: Herman Van Bergen, Carlos Blaaker, Hortence Brouwn, Ariadne Faires, Ria Houwen, Yubi Kirindongo, Midzy Longuevergne, Tony Monsanto, Ellen Spijkstra, Philippe Zanolino.
The exhibit has been curated by Susan Wilczak, a part-time lecturer in art history at Hope College. Wilczak first visited Curaçao in January 2010, and was immediately impressed by the island’s vibrant, diverse, unique and refined art community. She has developed “Island Reflections” to share the artists’ insights, and Curaçao’s art and culture, with the larger world.
The De Pree Art Center is located at 160 E. 12th St. The gallery is open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m., although the hours may be reduced during breaks and holidays.
For the original report go to http://www.hollandsentinel.com/newsnow/x1684325351/Hope-gallery-to-host-Caribbean-art
Photo by Ellen Spijkstra from http://www.ellenspijkstra.com/
Dear Lisa Paravisini,
Thank you for posting the article about “Island Reflections: the Contemporary Art of Curacao”. To my knowledge this is the first exhibition
of contemporary Curacao artists to visit the US and I believe it will be well recieved. At least four of the artists will be visiting the artists reception and talk and also several gallery owners including Nicole Henriquez. whose mother was a major force in Curacao art and culture in the 20th century. It would be a great joy to me and the artists and galleries to find another venue to take the show to after this one closes. I would love to talk to you further about this and the exhibit itself. If you could respond perhaps we could have a conversation via e-mail.
Kind Regards,
Susan WIlczak
By: Susan WIlczak on August 15, 2011
at 8:16 am