National Gallery gifted artwork from the 1990s
(L-R) Cassandra Greene gifts painting by artist John Broad to National Gallery director Natalie Urquhart
(CNS): Artwork by well-known local painter John Broad has been donated to the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) Permanent Collection. The acrylic on canvas titled “Over the Bridge” was gifted by Cassandra Greene, a long-time supporter of NGCI, and will join the gallery’s growing collection of more than 125 works of art.
The early work by Broad was part of the National Gallery’s exhibition “Fortissimo”, which opened to the public 6 May 1998. “I feel it is a unique donation to the National Gallery’s Permanent Collection as the work was part of an exhibition when the National Gallery was in its formative years at the Alexander Place location,” Greene said. “I’m thrilled that painting will join the National Collection and be appreciated by generations to come.”
The work depicts two figures who are crossing a bridge. The figure leading the way has a torch in hand. Broad spoke of his creation. “The work is part of a series I did at a time when I was still a single parent. They engendered feelings of loss, but at the same time hope for the future, for myself and my family,” he explained.
The painting comes to the gallery at a significant time as the NGCI launches an art fund, with the support of Susan A. Olde, to sponsor major acquisitions of works by artists from the Cayman Islands. To date, several key works have been secured, including “Kitchen Window I-IV”, a series of rare painted window panels, circa 1980, by Gladwyn K. (Miss Lassie) Bush; and “White Plaits, Blue Braids”, 2015, by Kaitlyn Elphinstone.
“These successes were made possible with help from people who share our belief in the importance of securing and commissioning great artworks of national significance and in keeping them publicly accessible,” said NGCI director Natalie Urquhart. “We need help from the public to ensure that the collection continues to grow and inspire visitors long into the future.”
The NGCI Collections Committee identifies artwork for consideration for the gallery’s Permanent Collection based on their historical significance, strength of execution and authorship.
Anyone can donate to the fund, with amounts based on personal circumstances. In addition to helping the National Gallery secure artwork, funds contribute to collections-based public education programmes, artwork conservation and related research projects.
“Bequests to the National Gallery, of whatever size, help to strengthen and conserve the collection long term. These gifts stand as a lasting tribute to the generosity and vision of NGCI’s benefactors,” added Urquhart.
For further information on donations and support, contact the NGCI Collections Committee at 945-8111 or by email
Category: Arts, Visual Arts
