A vibrant tribute to everyday Belizean life is now on display at the Bliss Centre for Performing Arts. The “Moments” art exhibit, which opens this evening, features thirty original works by artist Rachel Heusner and her 20-year-old son, Dean Martin.
“Basically, we do a lot of historical paintings between myself and my son,” Heusner said. “I came up with the theme ‘Moments’ because when you paint, you basically capture a moment in time.”
The paintings, drawn from scenes of daily life—such as buying fruit at the market or walking down Albert Street—aim to preserve both the mundane and meaningful fragments of Belizean culture. “Life happens every second,” she added.
Many of the pieces reflect iconic Belize City landmarks and businesses that are fading from memory. “There’s so much stories and memories… especially for those who live abroad. They miss Belize,” Heusner said.
Heusner and Martin, who reside in Trinidad and Tobago, say the project has been a chance for them to reconnect with Belize. “He works along with me… and in doing that, he gets to learn a little bit about the history of Belize,” she shared.
The public is invited to view the exhibit for free. “I don’t feel people should have to pay to look at art,” Heusner said. “Come and enjoy the art… If you want to take something home, then there’s a little fee.”
“Moments” will remain on display until Friday, May 16.