BASED on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) issued in May 2014, the Ministry of Culture, Youth & Sport in collaboration with the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Company (GT&T) yesterday launched the first series of the three books titled: “Panorama, a Portrait of Guyana,” which features a collection of all genres of art pieces of the National Collection at Castellani House.

Staged at Cara Lodge, the Minister of Culture, Youth & Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, along with GT&T’s Chief Executive Officer, Radha Krishna Sharma; Chairman of Castellani House, Alim Hosein; and its Deputy Curator, Ohene Koama, all addressed the high, positive impact this project has led to thus far.
Initially, the idea was to publicise each art piece of all genres: paintings, sculpture, drawings and ceramics in three books over the period of three years with GT&T’s funding of $9M in totality and as such,will subsequently lead to the digitalization of the books.
The minister in his opening remarks, emphasised the significance of the partnership with GT&T given that the Guyanese society will now be fully aware of the wonders found in Castellani House. He noted that the collection commenced in the 1950s and has been housing over 1,200 pieces.
As such, he added that “the majority of Guyanese never saw the treasures of Castellani…” and for this to happen it would take years, hence this initiative. He further stated that the other two books, one of which will be published throughout this year, will be easier with regard to completion. Moreover, he lamented that the ministry is quite optimistic in the digitalization of these books since it is a “powerful statement in developing Guyanese culture.”
GT&T’s CEO, Sharma underscored that the company “prides itself as a national institution” and view themselves as beyond a “simple telecommunications provider.” In addition to his brief remarks, he placed emphasis on the company being a contributor in the areas of sports, culture, education, health among others. Moreover, he noted that there is no doubt that the publication will promote and foster a wider appreciation for visual arts and as such, added that “our contribution to this project helps in the welfare for all Guyanese,” as they will continue to aid the ministry in its every endeavours.
Meanwhile, Hosein expatiated on the book, since it signifies public education and it being another “little slice of the National Collection.” He enlightened the audience on the particulars of the book which is inclusive of 68 pieces of art work along with essays. He then noted that the first challenge was one of timing, since it was a tad hectic in gathering the contents of the book.
The book according to Hosein, highlights issues from the birth of Guyana to an array of societal and realistic themes and concludes with a promising and forward -looking note for Guyana. There is “an unspoken narrative throughout the book,” added Hosein and will ideally spark more interest in the national interest.
Koama, on the other hand, expressed similar sentiments to Hosein’s, noting that it is a “moment of history for Castellani House.”

(By Shivanie Sugrim)