The genesis, impact and influence of the Cayman Islands’ Coat of Arms is the central feature of a new exhibit at the Cayman Islands National Museum.

Curated by the Museum and presented to the public in partnership with Celebrate Cayman, the exhibit took a look back at the story of the Coat of Arms. It highlighted the individuals who helped make the Coat of Arms  a reality back in 1958, and even gave the public a look at alternative design proposals. .

The exhibit was officially opened to the public last Saturday, 15 December with a short ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m., followed by a special Christmas “Looky Ya!” event at the Museum that continued until 2 p.m. In addition to free admission all day, Museum visitors weree able to enjoy local food, traditional crafts, and festive, family-friendly entertainment along Goring Avenue.

“We’re very excited about the launch of this exhibit. Our Coat of Arms is a symbol many are familiar with but possibly haven’t given much thought to how it came to be. This is a wonderful way for the community to learn why our first national symbol holds such importance for our islands,” comments Alfonso Wright of Celebrate Cayman.

“The National Museum is the community’s living connection to Cayman’s past, so collaborating with Celebrate Cayman on this exhibit was a natural fit for us. We believe the public will really enjoy seeing the exhibit and will walk away with a greater appreciation for the Coat of Arms,” says Debra Barnes-Tabora of the Cayman Islands National Museum.

In the months leading up the opening of the exhibit, the public had the opportunity to get a preview of what to expect with a special Travelling District Display. The display began its tour of the country in East End, visiting every district as well as Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

The Coat of Arms exhibit will be on display for the next few months.

To learn more about the Celebrate Cayman initiative you can visit the dedicated website www.celebratecayman.ky