The concluding exhibition of the ‘Traces of Humanity’ project opened yesterday evening at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery in Casemates.

Organised by Gibraltar Cultural Services, on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, and sponsored by Aon Insurance, the project has involved events featuring the work of over 30 artists from Gibraltar, the Lloyds Art Group and world-renowned artists in Margate (Kent) and Noho Studios (London).

The theme, set by curator Philippa Beale, a British visual artist, sculptor and curator, celebrates the Gorham’s Cave Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is crucial to the global understanding of human evolution. The exhibitions have payed tribute to the ‘traces’ left by humanity, reflecting on self-knowledge, history and other aspects of human existence.

Paintings, prints, sculptures, videos and installations by local artists Ambrose Avellano, Ermelinda Duarte, Mark Montovio, Alan Perez, Monica Popham, Sebastian Rodriguez, Michelle Stagnetto and Karl Ullger have featured in the UK events and are now on display until the end of July in Casemates.

Professors Clive and Geraldine Finlayson also spoke about Gorham’s Cave both at Noho Studios, London and in Gibraltar as part of the project. The programme has also seen a variety of talks and public engagement with a commemorative catalogue also available featuring essays by different professionals about the theme and the link between art and science.

In his foreword to the catalogue, the Minister for Culture Christian Santos, says the project is a “significant cultural initiative that underlines the value of artistic collaboration and international exchange.” He added that these encounters “broaden and enhance Gibraltar’s cultural visibility on the international stage.”

GCS CEO Seamus Byrne, writing in the catalogue, said: “Through initiatives like this, we continue to support our local creatives, giving them the platforms and networks and ensuring that Gibraltar’s artistic voice is both heard and celebrated abroad.”

Curator Philippa Beale said that when Seamus Byrne approached her to embark on this fourth collaboration, “I once again chose a theme that would elevate Gibraltar’s presence and perception on the global stage.”

Traces of Humanity exhibition is open at the Gustavo Bacarisas Gallery Mon-Fri 10:30am to 6:30pm and on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 1:30pm until the 31st July.