Stanley Greaves Cancels Art Exhibition in Protest

By Mark DaCosta- In a strong statement against current practices by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) regime, celebrated Guyanese artist Stanley Greaves has announced that he will not be holding his planned exhibition at the National Gallery of Art, also known as Castellani House. Greaves, a prominent Guyanese figure in the art world, cited the unreasonable behaviour of Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson, as a key reason for this decision. Greaves publicly condemned Ramson’s recent actions, which he described as “dictatorial” following the controversial removal of Ohene Koama from his position as Curator of Exhibitions.

Greaves expressed his dismay in a letter published in the media, affirming that not only had he reached out to Koama — traditionally the person to consult regarding exhibitions — but he was then redirected to the Minister. He remarked, “Lo and behold, I was told that Minister of Culture Ramson was now the person to approach.” This alarming change in protocol came alongside statements that no exhibition catalogue would be printed and that refreshments would not be available for his guests, undermining the grand tradition of art openings.

The artist’s frustrations do not end there; they resonate within a larger critique of Ramson’s qualifications for holding such a pivotal cultural position. Opposition Leader Aubrey Norton, of the People’s National Congress Reform, supported Greaves’ stance, arguing that Ramson lacks insight into the nuances of culture and fails to provide a clear vision for the artistic community. “He is restricted to fixing grounds and shaking hands,” Norton said.

Reflecting on the historical significance of the curator’s role, Greaves recalled that the post was traditionally filled by individuals well-versed in art, such as Everly Austin and Elfrieda Bissember. He lamented that Ramson’s governance diverges sharply from this precedent, thereby usurping the curator’s responsibilities.

Greaves firmly stated, “on no account would I do such a thing,” referring to the possibility of diminishing the exhibition’s integrity under such governance.

As Greaves articulated his concerns, he characterised the actions taken by Minister Ramson as embarrassing and reflective of poor leadership. He noted, “He has no background in Art to do such a thing,” calling out the minister’s imposition of restrictions as a demonstration of ignorance and arrogance.

Describing the importance of an exhibition catalogue as a cultural record, Greaves suggested that artists now face a dual challenge: either seek permission from Ramson or advocate for restoring Koama to his rightful position as curator.

Additionally, Greaves remarked on the recent intervention from Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, which led to Ivor Thom’s return to the Burrowes School of Art after his resignation stemming from racially charged incidents involving the Minister. Greaves believes that the current government must acknowledge its shortcomings and make reparations to preserve the integrity of Guyana’s artistic and cultural institutions.

Demonstrating his commitment to a better future for the arts, Greaves proffered a path forward, encouraging the reinstatement of a committee to support Castellani House, which included diverse representatives from across the community. “I hope future ministers of culture will act more like their predecessors,” he said, expressing a longing for a return to focused and informed leadership in the arts.

Stanley Greaves, a national treasure, was born in 1934 and has made significant contributions to the development of contemporary art in our nation. His work often embodies themes of identity and history, and he has been instrumental in nurturing young artists through teaching and mentorship. Throughout his nearly nine-decade life, he has garnered admiration for his multi-talented artistry that spans painting, sculpture, and graphic design, marking him as a pivotal figure in the evolution of Guyanese art.