2008 Press Releases

Women’s History Month Art Exhibit "Expressions" by Women in Belize.  Remarks by Mrs. Gwynneth A. Dieter (March 11, 2008)

George Price Centre for Peace and Development
Belmopan

(L-R) Rachel Heusner, Lita Krohn, Pamela Braun, Mercy Sabal, Susana Dyck, Selma Tosti, Maria Dyck, Dorrie Emmel and Mrs. Gwynneth A. Dieter.

I would like to welcome everyone here today as we open this wonderful art exhibition “Expressions” by Women in Belize in celebration of Women’s History Month.

Each year during the month of March, both the United States and Belize recognize the achievements of women in all facets of society – family and community, science, government, literature, art, sports, business, medicine - and celebrate the contributions of women to our development and our histories.  First and foremost, women support our nations as wives, mothers, grandmothers and caregivers.  Women make up almost half the labor force in both Belize and the United States; many hold top positions in large corporations, such as Hewlett-Packard, Archer Daniels Midland and Ebay.  The current Secretary of State and Speaker of the House in the United States are women as well as numerous senators, congresswomen, governors and mayors.  Belize has nominated female senators in its new government, has its first female Supreme Court Justice, a female mayor of its largest city and many more women in CEO and high-level positions in government.  Women are many of our best teachers, lawyers, researchers, journalists, doctors and, of course, artists.  This month as women in the U.S. and women in Belize share the history of achievements by women in our two countries we also gain a glimpse of what women are poised to accomplish in the future. 

This year’s theme for Women’s History Month is Women’s Art to honor “the originality, beauty, imagination and multiple dimensions of women’s lives”.  I have lived in Belize for two and a half years and have very much enjoyed discovering the art of Belize. When I learned of this year’s theme, I thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to showcase some of the works of art created by women in Belize.  We chose the title “Expressions” because these works of art reflect the very personal and unique nature of the creative process – for which there is no set formula or pattern, but only the artist’s perception and desire.  Their works express not only the artists’ personal sense of beauty and imagination, but also their culture and their view of life and the world.  Belize has a rich cultural heritage.  Beginning with the Mayan art from centuries ago to the works on display here today these artistic works tell a story.  In viewing works of art, we, the observers, respond to each piece or story in our own unique way, but through the experience all of us grow richer in our perceptions of ourselves and others.  

At the same time, we are reminded of the strong and influential role women have had throughout history and the role they can play in the future.  I hope that young women will be inspired by the example of these artists and that young men will expand their appreciation of the strength and capability of women. 

The exhibit today personifies the title “Expressions.”  It encompasses a range of forms of expression in the visual arts - including painting, quilts, slate carvings, gourds and bowls, ceramics and decorative boxes - and represents artists from all parts of Belize – Belize City, Dangriga, Belmopan, Cayo and the cayes.  The women in Belize are tremendously talented.  I hope that today’s exhibit highlights the captivating and unique works of each artist as well as the variety and breadth of the talent in Belize.  

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the artists whose work is on display, many of whom have traveled far to be with us for the opening today.  They are: Jeanne Bennett
Carol Brannon, Pamela Braun, Carolyn Carr, Ingrid Cayetano, Betty Cooper, Susannah Dykes, Dorrie Emmel, Sabina Garcia, Nicole Gallego, Rachel Heusner, Lita Krohn, Joan Lamb, Sandra March, Emilia Moralez, Carrie Paul, Michele Perdomo and Mercy Sabal.

I would also like to thank Ms. Elsie Alpuche, the Director of the Price Centre for Peace and Development for her acceptance, support, and encouragement in organizing this show, and Mr. Gilvano Swasey, the curator of this exhibition, for his inspiration, creativity, and time allowing the artists’ work to be shown to its greatest potential.  Without their support this exhibit would not have been possible. 

At this point I also want to mention that all the pieces are for sale for the duration of the exhibit.  If you are interested in purchasing, Elsie has the price list at her desk.

Finally, I would like to thank you all for being with us today for this very special Women’s History Month art exhibit.  My hope is that it inspires all of us to expand our view of the potential for women, not only in art, but as leaders, examples and contributors in all aspects of society.   Enjoy the exhibit and this unique opportunity to speak with the artists who are here with us today.