On 09 June 2022, NGCI held a private opening in the Lower Exhibition Hall for the solo exhibition of leading Caymanian artist and Native Sons member, Nasaria Suckoo Chollette – winner of the inaugural Cayman Islands Biennial Bendel Hydes Award in 2019. Showcasing her dynamic and multi-layered practice, All The Coals We Left in The Fire examines Caymanian heritage, primarily the difficult shared experiences and histories that are all too often forgotten or ignored, utilising the works on display as a means of encouraging much-needed conversations around these critical issues.
Through her use of a variety of artistic media – from installation and sculptural assemblage works to video, collages, mixed media works and paintings – Nasaria touches on several themes such as: the history of enslavement and its lasting repercussions; stigma surrounding mental health in the region; the role of women in Caymanian society, and notions of cultural identity and erosion. The result serves to provide a powerful commentary on contemporary Cayman and the resiliency of its people. Says the artist:
“This mid-career survey exhibition is in its essence an archaeological exercise, not just foraging into past works, themes, techniques and materials, but also into our cultural and heritage past, where many things of great value have been buried, with the purpose of reinterpreting those treasures – to bring light to them in a way that deepens the human experience”
Trying to “elevate” what has become overlooked to a more “sacred place” – “at the altar of the present” – in more ways than one, the artist’s contemporary reinterpretation of and appreciation for traditional craft materials, processes and techniques also shines throughout the show. Collaborating with local artisans, such as Rose May Ebanks, to create some of the works on display, Nasaria skilfully contextualises craft within Caymanian art history and the present day, as she highlights the potential for limitless creative expression within these practices – educating new audiences to its historical significance and opening up dialogue around the role it can play today.
As a multidisciplinary creative talent—storyteller, writer, and visual artist respectively—Nasaria’s poetry is also displayed alongside some of her award-winning artworks and best-known pieces from the National Collection, which are all accompanied by written and audio interpretive labels, read by the artist herself. By enabling visitors to scan QR codes with their smartphones for detailed descriptions of each of the featured artworks, NGCI hopes to make a truly interactive, inclusive and welcoming visitor experience to all members of the community.
Nasaria Suckoo Chollette: All the Coals We Left in The Fire is on view until 07 October 2022. Admission to the gallery and the exhibition is free to all, and opening times are Monday to Saturday 10:00AM – 5:00PM. For more information about Nasaria Suckoo Chollette: All the Coals We Left in The Fire and all related programming visit our What’s On page, or email education@nationalgallery.org.ky.