A major landmark exhibition organised by Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, will see artists from Gibraltar, Lloyds Art Group and world-renowned artists exhibiting both in the United Kingdom and in Gibraltar.
This unique project entitled ‘Traces of Humanity’, will feature various events in Margate during the month of May; a major exhibition at Noho Studios, London from the 19th to 29th May; and concludes in Gibraltar from 1st to 31st July at Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery.
The theme, set by curator Philippa Beale, celebrates the Gorham’s Cave Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of global importance in understanding human evolution. The exhibition will pay tribute to the traces left by humanity, reflecting on self-knowledge, history and the everyday aspects of human existence.
Philippa Beale is a British visual artist, sculptor and curator who has led on previous exhibitions in Gibraltar and hosted Gibraltar’s artists in London.
Selected artists have been encouraged to explore the theme in innovative ways with painting, printmaking, sculpture, video and installation part of the offering. Those exhibiting in the UK, both in Margate and London, are: Ambrose Avellano, Ermelinda Duarte, Mark Montovio, Alan Perez, Monica Popham, Sebastian Rodriguez, Michelle Stagnetto and Karl Ullger.
Professors Clive and Geraldine Finlayson will be speaking about Gorham’s Cave both at Noho Studios, London and at Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery as part of the project. The programme both in the UK and Gibraltar will also see a variety of talks and public events, offering opportunities for social engagement and outreach throughout. A commemorative catalogue is currently being produced featuring essays by different professionals in relation to the theme and the link between art and science. Around 35 artists will be part of the initiative which promises to be thought provoking and inspirational.
Minister for Equality, Employment, Culture and Tourism, the Hon. Christian Santos GMD MP said: “’Traces of Humanity’ sees collaboration with several international artists on a subject Gibraltar is celebrated and renowned for: the Gorham’s Cave Complex’. It will certainly be interesting to see the links between art, science, history and culture brought to life by all the artists involved using different mediums. I wish to thank Gibraltar Cultural Services and Philippa Beale for bringing four art exhibitions with several satellite events to fruition. We can all be proud of exporting Gibraltar’s art, culture and history overseas and equally proud to host new, and old, friends on the Rock.”