GEMA opened its doors today
The Gibraltar Exhibitions of Modern Art – G.E.M.A., located at Montagu Bastion, Line Wall road, was officially inaugurated today (Tuesday) by the Minister for Culture, the Hon Steven Linares.
This new gallery opened with exhibition rooms dedicated to previous winners of the three main art competitions held annually; The International Art Exhibition, The Young Art Competition and The Spring Visual Arts Competition. The public will be able to enjoy a total of 40 artworks - mostly paintings but there are also sculptures, video, installation and photography. This is in keeping with the Government’s policy of promoting the visual and contemporary arts in Gibraltar and abroad.
The gallery is housed within the historical Montagu Bastion, which was recently refurbished, after having been used as a store for many years. It now serves the dual purpose of showcasing local art talent as well as the opening up of a new site of heritage value, for locals and tourists alike.
Minister Linares said “I am delighted that after having recently opened the Mario Finlayson National Art Gallery, which celebrates the works of Gibraltarian artists of yesteryear, we are now able to display, at the GEMA, in this wonderful contemporary space, the works of current artists, including very young, up and coming ones.”
In order to brand the gallery, the Ministry of Culture in conjunction with Gibraltar Cultural Services held a competition to select a logo.
At the inauguration of the gallery, Minister Linares, presented a trophy and a cheque for £750 to Douglas Ignacio, who submitted the winning design.
With 17 artists submitting 43 entries, all of a very high standard, the panel decided to grant a further 4 highly commended awards to the following entrants: Geraldine Martinez, Stefano Blanca, Paul Cosquieri & Anselmo Torres. All submitted entries will be on display at the gallery.
The gallery is now open to the public Monday to Friday 11am – 3pm. Entrance is free.