Reflections on Emancipation and Post Colonial Society

Emancipation is defined as, “the act of setting free from slavery, servitude, and or restraint; deliverance from bondage or controlling influence; liberation.” Between 1833 and 1863 people of African descent across what was the old British empire, North and South America were released from the physical restraints of slavery and servitude. In less than 200 years the progeny of those emancipated people has been reclaiming their rights, identities and cultures in the presence of the many police and control systems that remain.

​The curatorial team challenged the artists to examine those issues and themes from their perspective. Then we encouraged, reviewed, and supported the amazing genius and creativity of these 17 artists. It is an exciting and eclectic array of creative energy on exhibit at the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts this summer. It represents a collective reflection of where Barbadian society has been, where we are today, and where we want to go in the future.

​African American artist, author and curator, Dr. Samella Lewis, said it best, “Art is not a luxury as many people think – it is a necessity. It documents history – it helps educate people and stores knowledge for generations to come.”

Anderson M. Pilgrim – Lead Curator

Oneka Small – Curator

Shane Eastmond - Curator

Tuesday-Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm

Saturday, 9:00am - 4:00pm

Cruise Ship Days, 8:00am – 4:00pm

Sunday & Monday Closed

Caribbean Museum for the Arts

10 Strand St. / 62 King St.

Frederiksted – Virgin Islands

https://www.cmcarts.org/reflectionsonemancipation