Magna Mater in Curaçao
Ive Antonia is an iconographer and in the past she has shown her works in the art gallery of Landhuis Bloemhof in Curaçao. In 2018 Ive is embarking on a new project and organizing an exhibition on the theme of goddesses and the primeval mother titled:
MAGNA MATER
October 1 – 30, 2018
Chapel of the former boarding school at Scherpenheuvel
The exhibition is composed of different parts. One section is dedicated to her icons of which most are dedicated to the holy virgin of the Catholic church, mother Mary.
Ive also invited a number of local artists to join and submit their vision on female saints, goddesses and the primeval mother. Participating artists are Stella Alberto, Eddy Baetens, Maghalie van der Bunt-George, Annemieke Dicke, Martie Genger, Ced Ride, Suzet Rosaria, Merly Trappenberg, Christina de Windt and Philippe Zanolino. Father Guillermo and father Plata also contributed an artwork of Maria.
A large rosary, made of calabash (gourd) is on display. It is made by students of Maria Immaculata Lyceum (MIL) under guidance of their teacher Suzet Rosaria.
Another section is called ‘Maria riba kaya’ (Maria outside), and contains photographs of images of Maria, found outside, everywhere on the island. Photographs are made by Maritza Antonia.
The last section is made up of different objects referring to Mary, mother of God. These objects are mostly on loan by private owners or organizations.
Lectures
During the exhibition, Tuesday evenings are dedicated to lectures and presentations on different topics related to Maria and goddesses. Speakers are Rose Mary Allen, Ive Antonia and Geraldine Isenia. Merly Augusta will be elaborating on Chiwewe (stories traditionally told in October, in catholic faith the month dedicated to Maria).
Sponsors
Stichting St. Thomas College, NAAM, Kas di Kultura, Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied and the Magna Mater-team.
Text and photographs by: Josée Thissen-Rojer.