Dominican artist showcases creations at “L’Art Dans Un Jardin De Fleures” (Art in a Garden of Flowers) exhibition [with photo gallery]

“L’Art Dans Un Jardin De Fleurs” (Art in a Garden of Flowers), an exhibition conceptualized by the Morne Anglais Community Tourism Group, in partnership with the Giraudel/Eggleston Flower Growers Group and artist Sandra Bell-LaRocque, showcases captivating art pieces and sculptures at the Flower Show Site in Giraudel.

Speaking with Dominica News Online (DNO), artist Sandra Bell-LaRocque, a native of the Giraudel community, expressed her pleasure with the turnout and support for the art exhibition thus far. The exhibition, inspired by a variety of themes, features art pieces and sculptures that reflect nature, music, culture, spirituality, and travel. Also on display are unique handmade jewelry pieces, and plants are available for purchase.

According to LaRocque, “This collection is an accumulation of art pieces over a number of years. We have decided to create an event around ‘L’Art Dans Un Jardin De Fleures’ (Art in a Garden of Flowers) because it is displayed in the Giraudel Flower Show Site, but instead of the main event being flowers we have an art exhibition.”

She added that the art pieces are surrounded by the power and beauty of nature, emphasizing the importance of learning to appreciate nature and its universal connections. The artworks are created from recycled paper, acrylic, oil, sawdust, clay, wire weaving, and fabric.

“I had an interest in art in primary school but there was no guidance. We did not have any classes there, but that never left me even though I could not practice. When I became an adult I was able to attend art classes, then I went to Guyana. It is in Guyana I attended the Borough School of Art where we had a lot of hands-on practical work using many types of mediums to include leather, clay, fabric, and wood. I then went on to the University of Guyana where I explored art across time, the globe, cultures of the people, and when you get into that you get into everything from
the beginning of time… human beings have been using art to make their own connection, so you get into the history of all cultures,” she added.

LaRocque noted, “What I have found when you travel to the ancient countries they have so much history. We as Dominicans do not have much history at all, it is less than 500 years. Even our ancestors came from Africa, but the real authentic thing we do not have that. So it is up to us now to captivate what makes us who we are and preserve it.”

She further stated that her art is a language that speaks with an emotional trigger.

LaRocque mentioned that she has exhibited before but not as a solo artist; her previous exhibitions were done in collaboration with a friend. However, several factors inspired her to hold a solo art exhibition. “When people come home, they say, ‘You have such good work; why not display them?’ And I thought about sharing my pieces with the public, but the opportunity was not there. Recently, I visited an exhibition and they had unusual art pieces, and the public accepted them. Even though I was sometimes kind of skeptical the public would not accept my pieces or appreciate it, surprisingly what I saw at this exhibition strengthened my confidence to display, as people do appreciate all aspects of art. We are a travelling people and our minds have [broadened] in terms of art,” LaRocque said.

“In terms of the turnout to the exhibition, it has been very good, I am very happy and satisfied. Mission accomplished,” she continued, further highlighting, “The art exhibition attracted a number of different people. What was interesting for me even the little children caught on to my art. I have received many great, inspiring reviews from children and also adults who have viewed the exhibition.”

LaRocque encourages everyone, especially children, to try art. “Even if we are all wired differently, art can never fail us because it is very therapeutic, has a healing effect, builds imaginative muscles, and provides a sense of joy and satisfaction after completing a piece of artwork. Additionally, art helps children think and remain focused, especially with the excessive use of the internet and phones among the younger generation.”

The “L’Art Dans Un Jardin De Fleurs” (Art in a Garden of Flowers) exhibition is free of charge for all attendees. It began on Saturday, October 19, with an opening ceremony and will conclude on Wednesday, November 6, 2024. Other activities during “L’Art Dans Un Jardin De Fleurs” include a performance by Carlyn XP and a “Sip and Paint” event on Friday, November 1, 2024, at 7 PM. This session will be led by artist Shadrach Burton and aims to raise funds for community members requiring medical support.