Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

During my staycation at Shoal Bay Villas, we decided to do some exploring. One of our stops was Savannah Art Gallery. Savannah Art Gallery is located in the ‘Old Valley’ or lower Valley close to Crocus Hill.   It is housed in two adjacent historic “old houses” which I believe add to the charm and appeal of this Gallery.

Exterior of Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

I pass Savannah Art Gallery regularly but had not visited in many years and I thought a beautiful Saturday afternoon was the perfect time to pop in. I know many of us probably have good intentions to check out some of the art galleries and the museum located across Anguilla but many of us never do. Make some time this year to visit some of the galleries. It is well worth spending some time among beautiful and creative pieces of art and pieces of local and regional culture.

Haitian metal sculpture – Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

Colourful paintings at Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

Frank Costin who is the owner and Director of Savannah Art Gallery was so helpful and friendly and shared the history behind some of the art in the Gallery.

I was fascinated by this piece of art and the story behind it. Frank told us the story but here it is in his own words taken from his blog on savannahgallery.com. This work was done by Victor Hempel who lives on a boat and sails around the world. In Franks own words  “Two years ago, this talented sculptor (Victor Hempel) found an almond tree felled and floating in the salt pond of Sandy Ground.  he saw potential with his gifted “eye” and hauled the tree back to his boat/workshop anchored in the bay.  This spring, after being exhibited in the St. Barth’s regatta art exhibition, it arrived in the gallery.  “Victor!” Frank said, quite miffed, “There’s not a single wall in this gallery that can accommodate its 11 feet height!”  After a couple of days, he instinctively hoisted it up and installed it in the gallery’s front room.  It’s an amazing sculpture, and it’s titled “Greeting the Morning Sun.” Truly a magnus opus for this sculptor.

Owner Frank Costin at Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

Art by Victor Hempel at Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

I agree Frank. I think it is simply beautiful  and I loved the story behind it. There were many other beautiful pieces of art in the gallery as you can see from these photos. I would like to say thanks to Frank who gave us permission to use any pictures from his website. I only took the picture of the cats and close up of my favourite sculpture. Check out the website for more photos.

It was also nice to wander from room to room and picture in my mind that Anguillian families once lived and loved in the tiny rooms of the gallery. I then ventured out on the back porch and was watched warily by some cats. As Frank explained he is allergic but he feeds the cats but they never come too close. He benefits because they keep the mice away and they benefit as they are fed daily – a win-win situation. The cats are beautiful though – Do you agree.

Cats at Savannah Art Gallery

It was a lovely visit and I will be sure to visit during the year to see what new pieces of art the gallery has. Frank’s blog on his website is also a great way to stay connected and you will find beautiful pictures of all the art there.

Be sure to stop by this Gallery or another one during 2014! You can check with the Anguilla Tourist Board to see if they still have copies of the art map. Have fun exploring!

Also, stop by and like My Anguilla Experience’s Facebook page and YouTube Channel and share the website with friends.

Have a great year!

Art and sitting area – Savannah Art Gallery, Anguilla

Crab at Savannah Art Gallery