Artist Nickola McCoy-Snell and Geraldine Morgan, owner of Morgan Gallery, beside
Humble Beginnings – an explosion of energy that reflects the artist’s deep-rooted
sentiments of her native Cayman.
Looking art the paintings currently displayed at the Morgan Gallery, one would come to the swift conclusion that these are works by at least three different artists. The biggest surprise would be to find out that all 40 pieces are conjured by a single imaginative mind and a pair of talented hands – Nickola McCoy-Snell.
Such is the diversity of Nickola’s works that as a viewer moves from one painting to the next, he will come to realise that he is actually being given the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the artist’s multi-faceted personality and yet be able to find in each piece, something to identify with.
Throughout the solo art show See Me Ya slated for 20 November until 1 December, the talented Caymanian artist takes art enthusiasts through a bewildering experience filled with crests and troughs. Her sharp and edgy paintings capture a sense of vibrant energy while others invite viewers to luxuriate in their own reflections.
This unique experience stems from Nicola’s temperament and her ability to capitalise on it. “Nickola is a very emotional person. Like other artists, she is easily affected by what happens around her,” observes Geraldine Morgan, owner and curator of the Morgan Gallery.
Nickola admits “I am very moody. In fact, my husband will tell you I have countless mood swings,” she laughs.
Her mood at a given time will dictate the direction that each creation takes. “Inspiration strikes during odd hours of the day. Sometimes, early in the morning or late at night, I would just get the drive to create something- anything. I grab whatever it is I can get my hands on and use them. There are times when, I wake up after a vivid dream and feel that I have to transfer the mental pictures on canvass,” shares Nickola.
Apart from being an exciting and colourful visual experience, Nickola’s art show is made doubly special by the fact that it is a celebration of her brother’s life and is held in aid of the Cayman Islands Cancer Society.
“The tragic death of my brother Curtis from cancer in 1997 at the age of 20 made me realise that life could be so short and you should not waste a minute of it, that it was OK to dream and have ambitions, my dream was to become an artist and my ambition was to one day have a Solo show in the Cayman Islands.
“This is also my way of giving back to the Cancer Society as they have been very supportive to my family during that difficult time,” she said.
For Nickola’s first solo show in Cayman, there is no place more perfect than the Morgan Gallery, a staunch supporter of Caymanian artists. According to Geraldine Morgan, “When we first opened in 2005, we initially featured international artists. But as time passed, more and more Caymanian artists have exhibited here. Right now, most of our collections are by Caymanian artists”.
The simplicity of the space, the incredible lighting from New York and the effective hanging system from the UK all contribute to make the art truly stand out and come alive. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the fact that they have enough room for an up close and personal look to concentrate on the details and yet be able to step back a bit to drink in the totality of the picture.
“I am grateful for being represented by The Morgan Gallery who have very kindly put their trust in me and agreed to host my show,” said Nickola, who also appreciates the guidance and advice that Geraldine provides.
In pursuit of her dream, Nickola has traveled to the USA, Russia and Europe and exhibited in many shows. She was the first woman to win the McCoy prize. For those who want to get to know this thriving Caymanian talent, she will be at the Morgan Gallery all day Saturday, 24 November.
“Please enjoy my labour of love, my first solo show in Cayman, a collection as varied asd the Islands, its people, sunsets and scenery,” invites Nickola.
kristel@caymannetnews.com | 
