Highlighting Sistah Art Gallery Through Exhibitions and Publications
Emancipation 175
The 175th anniversary of Emancipation was celebrated throughout the Virgin Islands on July 3, 2023, with various commemorations taking place locally in St. Croix. Cane Roots Art Gallery in downtown Christiansted showcased the artistic interpretations of 11 talented artists, each conveying their reflections on this historic occasion through a diverse range of mediums. The Company Street Gallery officially opened on July 6, 2023, and honored this important milestone by hosting insightful artist talks featuring Elisa McKay, John Obafemi Jones, and Niarus Walker. Gallery owner Sonia Deane extended a warm invitation to the community, encouraging visitors to explore the captivating artworks on display every Tuesday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. The exhibition ran from July through October 20, 2023
Elisa McKay celebrating the event with Nora Santana
McKay’s triptych beautifully captures the essence of freedom through three distinct stages. In "Planning for Freedom," we witness a clandestine conversation between two figures, their dark silhouettes hinting at the secrecy of their strategies. The artist, McKay, emphasizes the vital role of women in historical uprisings. Moving to "Rising Up to Freedom," a family is depicted fighting against the chains of enslavement, symbolizing unity and faith. Finally, in the artwork "Freedom," hands are raised in unison, representing liberation and a divine connection. McKay's triptych conveys a powerful message of unity in freedom across mind, body, and spirit.
Planning Freedom- Triptych
Mixed Media
Each Section 12 x 12
A Self Portrait
Celebrating 40 Years of Joy
Elisa at the entrance to the retrospective
Click on the announcement page to embark on a journey of art, history, and self-discovery with Elisa McKay's autobiography at the Caribbean Museum for The Arts.
Delve into the intricate layers of McKay’s art, which skillfully highlights themes of family, community, movement, spirituality, and joy through the unique medium of silhouette collage cutouts. McKay's celebrated work acts as a means to uplift and reconnect us with the core of our shared human essence, offering a refreshing take on the beauty of connection.
The retrospective exhibition of collage artist Elisa McKay stands as a profound testament to McKay's artistic journey over the past four decades. As one of St. Croix's celebrated artists, Elisa McKay's creative process illuminates themes of family, community, movement, spirituality, and joy with remarkable clarity.
Through her silhouette collage cutouts and intricate designs, McKay's artwork transcends mere visuals to uplift the spirit and evoke the essence of our shared humanity. The exhibition not only showcases the evolution of McKay's creative endeavors but also serves as a reflection of her unwavering dedication to exploring diverse themes throughout her career.
Explore the Exhibition!
A Self Portrait, Celebrating 40 Years of Joy
Featuring Elisa McKay
at Caribbean Center Museum for the Arts
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Introducing Elisa McKay, A Self Potrait, Celebrating 40 Years at CMC Arts Center
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Celebrating with daughter, Ayanna
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Sculpture & Mixed Media Originals
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Longtime family friend, Sayeeda Carter & daughter, Ayanna
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A Room with a View
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Storyboard
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A Dance Filled Corner
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A Bench to Ponder
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Featuring Elisa's Collected Cards
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Elisa's Collage Art is the foreground to her "Daddy" Ogese McKay's background paintings
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A closer look at Elisa and her father, Ogese McKay's combined art
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Interview shared at exhibit
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Arched windows and doors create a frame for each work of art in show.
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Window with a view
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A corridor featuring
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![A chair to sit and enjoy the show]()
Featuring 4 works of Art
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Embracing a colorful corner
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Elisa with cousin Rosie Mackay
Publications Featuring Elisa
Elisa's artistic endeavors have been recognized and celebrated across a myriad of publications, shining a spotlight on her distinct creative vision and remarkable talent. Whether gracing the pages of art magazines or being featured on online platforms dedicated to uplifting emerging artists, Elisa's creations resonate deeply with audiences, offering a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of St. Croix's culture and her profound affection for her loved ones. Her work serves as a testament to the power of art in conveying personal narratives and fostering connections that transcend boundaries.
