was painted by Mr. Earl Etienne some 30 years ago and was commissioned by Mr. Norris Prevost.
The recently concluded art exhibition titled “Echoes of Resilience – Standing Against Cultural Loss and Global Oppression” has been recognized as a significant triumph and a vital enhancement for the arts scene in Dominica. This exhibition was a successful collaboration between the Waitukubuli Artists Association (WAA) and the Prevo Cinemall.
The event began with a launching ceremony held in the Bamboo Ajoupa, located within the Prevo Cinemall courtyard, on December 6, 2024. It officially opened its doors to the public the following day, December 7, 2024, occupying the Middle Passage Room. The display lasted for five weeks, concluding on January 10, 2025.
In addition to an array of artistic works showcasing diverse styles from several of Dominica’s leading artists, the exhibition featured two nights dedicated to poetry, organized in partnership with Lyrics Under the Stars, as well as two evenings of engaging panel discussions. The final event occurred on January 10, featuring an impactful panel discussion titled “From Gaza to Haiti – Understanding the World through Empire.” Esteemed panelists included Dr. Lennox Honychurch and Mr. Lloyd Pascal, with moderation provided by Michael Lees, president of WAA.
Vanessa Prevost, the general manager of Prevo Cinemall, noted that the venue itself is a piece of art, representing the preservation of the Old Carib Cinema, a cultural heritage site constructed in the Art Deco style. The transformation of this site into a modern shopping mall, complete with a contemporary cinema, symbolizes the commitment to cultural preservation.
Some of the ways the Prevo Cinemall has sought to uphold not only tangible cultural heritage but also intangible aspects, include art, poetry, storytelling, culinary arts, and both traditional and contemporary Carnival expressions, including mass and calypso music, as well as the Kalinago and Creole Traditions.
This exhibition was also part of the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of Prevo Cinemall, inviting the community to enjoy art, shopping, dining, and festivities. Prevost expressed enthusiasm for the response from local artists, who embraced the opportunity to showcase their work. She emphasized that the “Middle Passage” room was an ideal space for a grand exhibition, citing its strategic location in the heart of Roseau and its accessibility through various entrances.
Prevost expressed her gratitude for the strong support received from the public regarding the exhibition. She noted, “The Dominica public supported the exhibition in their numbers,” highlighting that the launch was fully subscribed and that fringe events and panel discussions attracted significant attendance. She affirmed that Prevo Cinemall holding ‘Echoes of Resilience – Standing Against Cultural Loss and Global Oppression’ was “without a doubt, a great boost to the Art loving community of Dominica”
“The artists got to work in the space and they mounted a world-class exhibition. It was just fantastic. Dominica’s Artists did themselves proud” said Prevost, adding, “Prevo Cinemall will do it again.”
Prevo Cinemall expressed appreciation to the artists, poets, panelists, and all attendees for their invaluable support. The venue extended a special commendation to Pamela Clarke, who made eight visits to the exhibition on different days, engaging with artists and sharing their stories with the media.
Using the historic space and building from Cinema Carib to Prevo Cinemall is a creative way to connect the past with the present, and help people remember their history while still using modern facilities.
A significant feature was a painting by the late Earl Darius Etienne, depicting the original Carib Cinema, now the Prevo Cinemall.