The Waitukubuli Artist Association (WAA) is proud to announce the upcoming “Echoes of Resilience: Standing Against Cultural Loss & Global Oppression” exhibition, a groundbreaking event that emphasises the power of art to inspire, educate, and provoke thought. This immersive experience will take place at the Prevo Cinemall from Dec 7th, 2024 to Jan 10th, 2025, open Mon-Sat 11 am – 6 pm (except holidays).
A Tribute to Resilience and Cultural Heritage
“Echoes of Resilience” features work by Dominican artists, approaching themes around oppression and resilience from a variety of angles. Several artworks highlight iconic elements of Dominican nature and society, though not merely celebrating their beauty but also drawing attention to issues of cultural erosion and loss. The exhibition pays homage to important figures that shaped Dominica’s culture such as Earl Etienne and Powys Dewhurst, highlighting the importance of celebrating local pioneers. At the same time, the exhibition showcases pieces by contemporary and emerging artists, including a diverse range of art forms such as paintings, installations, photography, poetry, performance art, and interactive experiences.
A Call to Action
“There is a functional aspect to arts and creativity that elevates a society.” says Jenae Bell, lead curator of the exhibition. “This exhibition is not just aiming to showcase the immense talent of our artists, but also to inspire visitors and invite them to reflect on their – our – role in combating global and local social issues.”
“We are witnessing a multitude of interconnected injustices both in the region and abroad,” says Michael Lees, President of WAA. The creative team had been engaged in discussions on art as activism for months, with the genocide in Gaza in particular spurring the group’s motivation. “The temptation will always be to feel powerless and disconnected, as if these injustices didn’t concern us. This exhibition aims to inspire new thinking around these topics.”
Over the course of the exhibition, WAA will host several events as discussion forums around these themes: a panel discussion on freedom of expression, an event focused on cultural loss through genocide and colonialism, and a poetry night in collaboration with Lyrics Under the Stars. More information can be found at instagram.com/kubuliarts , facebook.com/kubuliarts & kubuliarts.com.
About the Waitukubuli Artist Association
WAA is a diverse group of artists with the objective to elevate creativity and appreciation for art in Dominica. Founded in 2018, the non-profit association counts more than 40 members proficient in painting, sculpting, photography, poetry, performance arts and other creative disciplines. WAA is best known for its murals and signs in various locations, but also runs educational activities and public events.
