Gallery launches new initiative to raise interest in arts

(NGCI): A new initiative for 20-35 year olds has been launched at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) aimed at connecting young professionals with an interest in the arts. The Young Patrons’ Circle (YPC) is anchored on a series of creative ‘members-only’ social events, and will include Preview Evenings, Artists Talks and other special events, as well as discounts for the NGCI Gift Shop, Art Café and workshops.

Funds from YPC membership will in turn support NGCI public programming and free admission to NGCI exhibitions for all.

YPC is designed to connect arts enthusiasts while raising the National Gallery’s profile amongst the younger generation living and working in the Cayman Islands. YPC Chairperson Belinda Murphy said, “YPC members will be able to connect to like-minded individuals with an eye for arts and culture and interact with NGCI experts and artists while making a significant difference in their community.”

The Committee, led by Murphy, Rory Mann and Lauren Christie, will be kick-starting the programme on 10 April with  “Croquet & Cocktails” held in the  gardens of the National Gallery and they are encouraging all interested members of the public to come out and join the event.

“This is a casual mix and mingle event which includes lawn games, art activities and specialty drinks. We’d like to thank Cayman Spirits Company for coming on board as one of our first sponsors and who will be donating all proceeds from the bar towards the National Gallery’s free public programming,” said Mann.

NGCI receives approximately 48% of its annual operations budget from the Cayman Islands Government, with the remainder being raised by way of private grants and fundraising events each year. As a result, NGCI relies heavily on the generosity and support from the entire community, including young patrons, to both preserve the history of art in the Cayman Islands and to promote the appreciation and practice of the visual arts of and in the Cayman Islands.

Christie, YPC Committee Member, notes, “Engaging with young minds is crucial to the success of the National Gallery. Young patrons today will become the next generation of supporters tomorrow. Without patrons the National Gallery, which is a fantastic, inclusive, free community facility, will undoubtedly struggle to remain sustainable.”

Admission to the “Croquet & Cocktails” event taking place Friday, 10 April from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM is CI $15.00 for non-Young Patrons’ Circle members and free for YPC members.

For details about the YPC programme and to sign up to become a member email info@nationalgallery.org.ky, call (345) 945 8111 or visit www.nationalgallery.org.ky.

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