Visual artist Katrina Abrahams marked her first exhibition in a decade with an intimate gathering at her family home in Jack’s Hill on Saturday, December 6. Titled Celebrating Women, the show featured 32 pieces that paid homage to the inner strength of women. Abrahams’ inspiration behind the collection was one born of personal struggle. Following serious injuries sustained in a 2018 car accident, Abrahams was forced to relearn her craft.

“I had a severe brain injury, broken bones and was in cognitive therapy for about a year. I had to relearn how to paint because that part of my brain was just confused,” Abrahams shared. “As I started [my recovery], I started to feel overwhelmed with all the hats that I had to wear as a single mother. I realised that I wasn’t alone or unique in this experience… This happens to so many women.”

Recognising that women share similar struggles, Abrahams explained that the exhibit was a tribute to their strength and resilience.

“I believe that we as women need to be celebrated because sometimes you just need to hear somebody else say that I know what you are going through and you can do this,” Abrahams said.

Part-proceeds from the exhibit are earmarked for Hurricane Melissa relief efforts.

Friday Social brings highlights.

Photographer: Joseph Wellington

The woman of the moment, Katrina Abrahams, stood proudly with her pieces Horse Girl (left) and Grace, Grit and Greatness. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Sharing visual artist Katrina Abrahams’ triumphant return to form was her father Michael. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Tracy Matalon was engrossed in Gentle Survivor, a powerful portrait depicting her. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Spotted at the exhibition were businesswoman Saveeta Castro (left) and Prime Development Jamaica General Manager Monique Todd. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Interior designer Michele Subaran and her contractor husband Robert paused to admire Lucy’s Kimono. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Travelling from Canada to show her support, strategy manager Jordana Gregg paused to appreciate the artwork No Surrender. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Dr Carolyn Gomes offered her perspective to her husband Dr Richard Gomes on the painting Inna Mi Ackee. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Supporting the exhibit were customs broker Garfield Gregg and his make-up artist daughter Sue. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)