Jan. 25, 2005 – Gallery St. Thomas on Government Hill will be featuring an exhibit of original works by contemporary artists in Ghana — "Ancestral Visions – Contemporary Expressions." The show opens with a reception from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday evening. A dance performance is scheduled for 7:30. Proceeds from the show will benefit the Caribbean Dance Company.
The idea for the show came from Monty Thompson of the Caribbean Dance Company. Thompson, who has designed and created dance performances in Ghana, wanted to build a bridge between Ghana and the Virgin Islands for cultural exchanges in the performing and visual arts.
Leroi Coubagy, curator for the Asafo Gallery, National Theatre of Ghana, selected the pieces from both established and emerging artists. "My intention is to have the artwork reach out to the world and reflect the traditional and contemporary art scene in Ghana," says Coubagy.
Once Thompson connected with Coubagy, the ideas came to fruition. Coubagy has traveled from Ghana with the artwork for the exhibit and will attend the opening reception.
"Ancestral Visions – Contemporary Expressions" features the artwork of nine artists, Osusu Ankomah, Alatapo Alao, Hackajaka, Osuwu Derty (Master Artist of Ghana), Professor E.K. Tetter (Master Artist of Ghana) Francis Mensah, Kwadwo Ani, Victor Odoi, and Larry Otoo. The diversity of the presentation is reflected in their experience and styles. Several of the artists have achieved international acclaim while others are considered emerging artists. The content of the work also varies from tribal influenced to modern contemporary expressions. The show also includes sculpture and textiles.
Thompson approached the gallery with the idea to expose the community to artwork from West Africa and to incorporate an African expression in the visual and performing arts locally. The other intention is to raise funds for the non-profit Caribbean Dance Company. "We are very appreciative of the opportunity to host a show of this caliber," gallery owner Claire Ochoa, said this week. "Thursday's show will be a dynamic presentation of contemporary African art."
The exhibit will remain on view through Feb. 5 and is open to the public Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
To preview the exhibit go to www.GalleryStThomas.com.