The Cayman Islands' Cultural Foundation is the principal arts development organisation for the country, and exists to stimulate, facilitate and preserve cultural and artistic expression generally - particularly the preservation and exploration of Caymanian performing, visual and literary arts. To this end, the Foundation initiates and runs diverse programmes aimed at encouraging and promoting the artistic talents of Cayman's most valuable resource - her people.
Besides producing a number of high quality theatrical events at the Harquail Theatre every year, the Cultural Foundation manages the US$4 million multipurpose venue which was donated to the people of Cayman by resident, Mrs. Helen Harquail. The theatre is regularly rented out to groups and individuals for a variety of events throughout the year.
The Foundation produces Cayfest (the Cayman Islands Arts Festival) each April, showcasing local talent at events island-wide and in
Cayman Brac. Other major Cultural Foundation projects have included the publishing of a 156-page, full colour book on the art of Cayman's foremost intuitive painter, entitled My Markings ... the Art of Gladwyn K. Bush, the hosting of the Carib Art Exhibition of over 130 artworks from 32 countries, and Cayman's participation in the Caribbean Festival of Creative Arts (CARIFESTA) - at which the best of the performing and visual arts of the Caribbean region are displayed. Additionally, the Foundation sponsors workshops for artists and teachers in creative writing, dance, painting, sculpture and other arts. Participants in these workshops gain valuable experience in the skills of their particular craft, and in using the arts as a tool for education and community animation.
As non-profit organisation - funded primarily by an annual government grant through the Ministry of Education, Training, Employment, Youth, Sports & Culture; the Foundation also depends on contributions from private enterprise, community based organisations and individuals. For more information on the Cayman National Cultural Foundation visit
www.artscayman.org or call 345-949-5477.
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