From National Gallery

Over CI $36,000 was raised at Ariane Dart’s Tea Party held annually in aid of the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) education programmes. Funds raised this year will specifically go towards the NGCI Creative Careers programme and their vibrant family programmes and activities. The Creative Careers programme offers a wide range of opportunities to those wishing to pursue careers in creative industries and supports the National Gallery’s mission to promote the appreciation and practice of the visual arts of and in the Cayman Islands.

NGCI Director Natalie Urquhart comments, “The 12th Ariane Dart Tea Party, held annually in aid of the National Gallery’s vibrant arts education programme, was a wonderful afternoon and a successful fundraiser. We were delighted to see so many Gallery members and friends turn out to support free youth arts education. NGCI receives approximately 48% of its annual operations budget from the Cayman Islands Government, with the remainder [a half million dollars] being raised via private grants and fundraising events each year.” She adds, “The Tea Party plays a critical role in helping us reach these targets. We are extremely grateful to our host Ariane Dart, and our many attendees.”

The Creative Careers programme at NGCI includes scholarships, internship programmes, career advice, a wide range of work experience opportunities, hands-on art workshops, special lectures, art resources and tours. Mrs Urquhart explains, “The National Gallery is committed to supporting the next generation of arts professionals, and sees great potential in the individuals who have taken part in the National Gallery’s Creative Careers programme so far. It is vital that we work to assist creative students who wish to further their education, develop their talents, reach their potential, and in so doing, enhance the community in which we live and work.”

NGCI staff and Creative Career participants will be at the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce Career, Education and Training Expo, between 10:00 AM and 7:00 PM on Friday 13 March at the UCCI Sir Vassel Johnson Hall, to speak with students who are interested in pursuing a dynamic career in the arts.

For more information about the Creative Careers programme at NGCI, email [email protected] or call (345) 945-8111.

Photo caption: Students enjoy themselves while taking part in a National Gallery tour