US Ambassador to Guyana D. Brent Hardt recently hosted an exhibition showcasing both American and Guyanese art at his residence.
The exhibition commemorated the 50th anniversary of the ART in Embassies programme created in 1963 and launched by then US President John F Kennedy to create cross-cultural dialogues and understanding through visual arts. Each US Ambassador assembles an exhibition to share with the people in countries where they serve to share the richness of American artistic expression and promote cultural connections.
According to a press statement from the US Embassy in Georgetown, Ambassador Hardt and his wife hosted a reception on June 21 to launch the exhibition. In attendance were Prime Minister Sam Hinds, who was performing the duties of President, Culture Minister Dr Frank Anthony, representatives from the diplomatic community, local artists and cultural figures.
The Embassy said the event promoted cultural and artistic exchange by showcasing both American and Guyanese art. The American artwork featured paintings that captured the natural beauty of Maine, the Ambassador’s home state. The Guyanese artwork, meanwhile, ranged from colourful scenic paintings by Merlene Ellis and O’Donna Allsopp, to beautifully sculpted pieces by Winslow Craig, Desmond Alli and Aiesha Scotland.
Ambassador Hardt, the Embassy reported, said he was delighted to share the American art with the Guyanese people and to join it with the creative talents of the Guyanese artists. He added that the US seeks to promote freedom of expression and understanding through visual arts and noted that the mandate of the Culture Ministry also encourages such cultural development and partnerships.
Prime Minister Hinds, meanwhile, welcomed the exchange of arts and culture and he also encouraged the continued support of local artists.
