Ins & Outs of Grenada

ART & CRAFT  89 INS Photos: Andrea Avezzù, courtesy La Biennale di Venezia; Photo botttom right: Francesco Galli, courtesy La Biennale di Venezia Clockwise from top right: Arsenale, Venice Biennale; Padiglione Centrale Giardini, Venice Biennale; Artwork by Amy Cannestra; Artwork by Shervone Neckles: Artwork by Billy Gerard Frank, Amy Cannestra, and Shervone Neckles. Susan Mains, the commissioner for the Grenada National Pavilion, partnered with stART to raise funds to cover the enormous costs of maintaining an exhibit in Venice over seven months. The role of the commissioner is unpaid and done for the benefit of the artists and the country. One of Grenada’s keys to success is its openness to collaborate with others to build a network, and push Grenada and its artists forward. Additionally, the pavilion in 2019 would not have been possible without assistance from private and governmental local sponsors including LaLuna, Century 21 Grenada, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & the Arts led by Senator the Honourable Norland Cox, the National Lottery Authority and the Grenada Tourism Authority. The Grenada Arts Council volunteers administrative support for the duration of the Biennale. What does it mean for Grenada? Participating in the Venice Biennale means that although Grenada is very small, we have a place at the table in the international contemporary art scene. Grenada trails only Cuba and Venezuela in the region in number of appearances, making it the English- speaking Caribbean’s front runner. The Grenada National Pavilion received over 60,000 visitors at the last Biennale in 2017, drawing attention for Grenada and its artists from a network of international curators, artists and supporters. Our national anthem says, “aspire, build, advance” - we hope our artists will continue to live up to this - participating at the pinnacle of international art, as our creative ambassadors to the world.