-
by pltm
(PLTM) - The arts industry in the British Virgin Islands, though well represented by local musicians, dancers, poets and other artistes, is not able to reach its full potential due to the lack of support from the private and public sector. This is the argument of Dr. Richard Georges.
While speaking earlier this month at the launch of ‘Where I See the Sun’, a book which features various poets from around the Territory, Georges stated that for the industry and its artistes to make a mark locally, regionally and internationally, support from the private and public sector is needed.
In his argument, he noted that it is a distinct priority of any Territory, with a sincere interest in its culture and identity, to patronize, support and nurture their arts.
For its survival and advancement, he noted that much more work is needed to catapult the industry and its artistes.
“Local establishments like our libraries, book stores, art galleries and museums, need investment and various types of support from the public and private sectors.”
He added, “Our educational institutions and curriculum need to recognize and embrace local art, music and literature as a valuable resource to educate the next generation of Virgin Islanders, while simultaneously validating their place in this world and their contributions.”
In his opinion, and as a poet himself, he expressed that the industry would be beneficial to writers and poets when “we ourselves can develop workshops, access to editors, writers, curators and develop our own book fairs and book festivals, with sincere knowledge that if it is good, local libraries and book stores will put our creations on their shelves.”
-----
Copyright 2023 by Virgin Islands Platinum News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
