As part of an “art for a cause” initiative, over 40 pieces by 10 emerging local artists are now on display at the Central Bank.
The fundraising exhibition, Paintings in the Garden, aims to support Serenity Place Empowerment Centre for Women, a substance abuse treatment facility that helps rehabilitate and reintegrate women into society.
Motivated by a personal mission to honour and acknowledge the struggles faced by those battling substance abuse, a journey her own brother experienced, US-based Alicia Aberdeen-Jones brought the seventh edition of Paintings in the Garden to Trinidad and Tobago.
“My brother Sheldon Aberdeen, known as ‘Sketch the Artist’, a well-known drug addict in Trinidad and Tobago with his public battles and recovery and what not. He really is the reason, the driving force behind it. So I seek out agencies that need help in his name with the art.”
Open to the public for viewing at the Central Bank, Governor and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Central Bank, Larry Howai, affirmed the commitment of the Bank to supporting such initiatives.
“Our CSR efforts are carefully designed to uplift and empower the people of Trinidad and Tobago through a focused strategy centred on three pillars: economic empowerment, health and wellness, and social development. Through these pillars we support initiatives that improve financial literacy, promote wellbeing and environmental stewardship and nurture arts, culture, education, and sport, especially for our young people and vulnerable groups.”
The exhibition also seeks to celebrate stories told through colour ,and highlight how art can transcend borders and bring communities together.
Ms. Aberdeen said among the mixed media pieces are those displaying iconic figures who have contributed to the culture of Trinidad and Tobago.
“I just think we should honour our icons while they’re here, while they’re able to receive the honour, while they could see how much they mean to us. So Calypso Rose, we know her story, she’s a trailblazer, I had to do her. David Rudder, same thing. With David Rudder, I had the good fortune of working with him on a previous Paintings in the Garden.”
The Paintings in the Garden exhibition will run until 10th September.