The Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts (CMCArts) is presenting an exhibit of the works of renowned St. Croix artist, Jean Merwin. “‘De Paintings ‘Dem: A Jean Merwin Retrospective” will open on Dec. 14 and run through Jan. 29. All proceeds from the exhibit will benefit CMCArts’ Artists in Residence Program. The public reception for the exhibit will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 17. Admission is $10 with free admission for museum members. Memberships to the museum can be purchased at the door.
Jean Merwin (1932-2001) displayed artistic creativity throughout her life, but it was in the second half of her life that her talents flourished. Originally from Pennsylvania, Jean arrived in St. Croix as a young wife in 1957, and then she bloomed where she was planted. Her paintings reflect her great sense of humor, her appreciation for local architecture and old time West Indian culture, and her interest in color. She became a highly regarded local artist, painting from the 1980s to 2001, leaving behind a legacy of wonderful paintings. Over 50 of her paintings and several pieces of her ceramic work will be on display. Works are on loan from 17 private collections will make up the exhibit.
The museum’s Artists in Residence Program has had international and Virgin Island artists, curators and writers in the past seven years from Curacao, Uruguay, New York City, Cuba, Denmark, Puerto Rico, England, Chile and Poland. The program provides classes and workshops for all ages at the museum center and often works in joint efforts with local schools. Many artists exhibit their work as well. Funding for this program is one of the major needs of this St. Croix- based non-profit organization.
A special Patron Preview fundraiser for the museum will be held on from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 12, at the museum. Guests will be entertained by cellist Thalia DeJesus and served Crucian cocktails. The cost per ticket is $50. All are welcome.
The exhibit can be viewed through Jan. 29 during the hours of 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, except for cruise ship days when the hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10/free to members. CMCArts is at 10 Strand Street in Frederiksted. Call 772-2622 for information.
