The Wattle and Red Earth (WARE) Collective, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation of traditional arts and sustainable building practices, is excited to share its latest developments and progress regarding the establishment of the Living Museum to celebrate Jamaica’s historic buildings and Jamaicans’ extraordinary and humble lives in the post-emancipation era.

The recent charity auction, held on October 14 and 15, was a success, and it has provided the WARE Collective with crucial funding to advance the ambitious project. The Living Museum being established in Southfield, St Elizabeth, will be a space where heritage isn’t a relic but a vibrant, evolving entity.

The location will not be a solitary building, but a collection of restored structures with diverse purposes, engaging visitors in activities that enrich their connection with history. The immersive experience will include not just Spanish wall buildings, but also a restaurant, a working farm, and activities such as demonstrations on constructing a Spanish wall.

Director at WARE Collective, Carol Campbell, said the 2nd Biennial Art Auction is its major fundraising event and was pleased that the public supported the initiative which featured noted local and international artists.

“Most of the participants were repeat customers, (local and overseas), from the first auction, who once again eagerly supported the WARE vision, and stayed with us even though we went overtime,” said Campbell.

The event’s auctioneer was Douglas Reid from Grosvenor Galleries who did a fantastic job by keeping the auction lively and fun, “and his intimate knowledge of most of the artwork assisted potential buyers”.

Campbell added that, “having a preview exhibition this year gave potential buyers an up close view of a good selection of the high quality artwork, as each of the 38 participating artists was represented.”

Media Personality Emprezz Golding after attending the preview night commented that the artwork and event were “spectacular”.

The funds raised from the recent charity auction are a testament to the passion and dedication of the artists, bidders, and supporters who share the WARE Collective’s vision. The funds raised enable the organisation to better move forward with the Living Museum project which aims to document and showcase the rich heritage of traditional Spanish wall buildings and their place in Jamaica’s history. The project’s goals include:

* Preservation of cultural heritage: The Living Museum will serve as a living proof to the architectural and cultural significance of Spanish wall buildings, with a focus on their preservation and restoration.

* Education and awareness: The museum will be a centre for educational activities, workshops, and exhibits, promoting sustainable building practices and traditional arts to the public, students, and scholars.

* Artistic expression: The project will continue to support local and diaspora artists, as was evident in the recent charity auction, by providing a platform to create and showcase art that celebrates Jamaica’s rich artistic culture.

* Community involvement: The Living Museum will actively involve the local community, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the preservation of their cultural heritage.

The WARE Collective is currently in the planning and development phase for the Living Museum which is scheduled for opening within a few years. The Living Museum will create a lasting legacy for future generations to appreciate and be inspired.