Portland Art Gallery seeks support
Published:Saturday | November 12, 2011 | 12:00 AM
PORT ANTONIO, Portland:
THE PORTLAND Art Gallery, located along West Palm Avenue, near the Old Marina, is home to many, including students who are trained in areas of art and craft, portraits, printing, design, and embroidery.
A smiling and relaxed Hopeton Cargill spoke recently to The Gleaner and explained that the gallery affords many persons the opportunity to develop their artistic skills and to undertake new challenges.
"I feel good being able to pass on what I have learned," said Cargill. "I started out in 1984 and was taught the art by a friend known only as 'Nigerian', who at the time operated an art shop in Port Antonio. This facility opened in 2005, and it has been doing relatively well since. I am happy to be able to pass on art to students who are very enthusiastic," he added.
Survival of the facility
The 37-year-old Cargill, who is a landscape and portrait specialist, said that although the gallery is not funded by anyone, the artwork is advertised and displayed on the Internet, which has resulted in sales from time to time. The survival of the facility, he noted, is incumbent on him and other persons at the gallery who contribute to its growth.
According to Cargill, any kind of funding, and from whomever, would go a long way in helping the gallery to purchase new and modern equipment that would go a far way in assisting students and others in various art forms.
But while the gallery has been operating for the better part of six years, Cargill pointed out that although they have had many commendations, no one within the boundaries of Port Antonio has supported the business.
Apart from Cargill, four other persons vastly experienced in embroidery, portrait, printing, design, drawing, basket making, and wall painting assist with the day-to-day running of the art gallery.