Art and Heritage of the Cayman Islands with Maia Muttoo

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Art speaks volumes about history and resilience. Join us as we chart the artistic evolution of the Cayman Islands with Maia Muttoo, Education Manager at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands. With her fascinating pan-Caribbean roots, Maia offers a unique perspective on how storytelling, history, and art intertwine to shape the Caribbean narrative. Our journey takes us to the heart of the Cayman Islands, where the spirit of creativity thrives amid challenging environments. Discover the remarkable craftsmanship and ingenuity of Caymanians, from the iconic Cayman Catboat's maritime legacy to the meticulous art of thatch basketry. This episode highlights the traditional skills that have been passed down through generations, revealing a blend of survival and artistry that remains integral to Caymanian identity. 

Artistic expression in the Cayman Islands continues to evolve, fueled by a dynamic blend of traditional crafts and contemporary influences. Whether you're captivated by the evocative seafaring heritage captured by Simon Tatum or the intuitive dream-inspired art of Miss Lassie, this episode invites you to experience the Cayman Islands' rich artistic landscape and the cultural connections that inspire it.

Maia Muttoo is a cultural professional interested in the role of arts-based programming, storytelling and events in education, public outreach, and the enlivening of community. She is the Education Manager at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands (NGCI) where her work supports community engagement with NGCI’s visual art collections, exhibitions and initiatives through the development, implementation and evaluation of public programmes and resources. Muttoo holds a MA with distinction in Cultural and Creative Industries from King’s College, London, and a BA (Hons) in History from the University of Toronto. She has participated in the Museums Association of the Caribbean’s annual conference since 2022, and has been involved in a range of cultural projects locally and regionally through her work with both public and private organisations as a writer, educator, and events/programmes coordinator. Muttoo was an exhibiting artist in the 3rd Cayman Islands Biennial, Conversations with the Past in the Present Tense, and is the recipient of a Heritage Cross Award (Mid-Career) at the Cayman National Cultural Foundation’s 2023 National Arts and Culture Awards. 

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