Elodie Cage-Smith - Caribbean Symphony - 2023 Mixed media 27.50" x 19"
Elodie Cage-Smith is a distinguished artist known for her captivating works that transcend boundaries. Her artistry, characterized by a fusion of diverse techniques and materials, reflects a deep connection to the Caribbean and its rich cultural tapestry. Elodie embarked on her educational journey by acquiring a Professional Baccalaureate in Crafts and Artistic Professions, specializing in Clothing and Fashion Accessories. Subsequently, she honed her skills at the E.R. Burrows School of Art, graduating with a Diploma in Fine Arts. The artist will be exhibiting at this year’s Caribbean Fine Art Fair. We had the opportunity to speak with her about her work and career.
Elodie, many thanks for accepting our invitation to speak. What drew you to a career in the arts?
It all began around the age of twelve when I started to realize my knack for finding beauty in the simplest of things. This perspective opened my mind to see beyond the physical and delve into the realms of creativity. In my early education, I immersed myself in fashion and art studies. Pursuing a Certificate in Professional Fashion and a Baccalaureate in Professional Art, I embarked on a journey into the arts. These formative experiences ignited my passion for expression and fueled my aspirations of working in the industry. I was driven by a desire to blend various artistic techniques to create unconventional and captivating artwork. From the polished glass rejected by the Caribbean Ocean to the rusty nail slowly eroding in salt water, I find aesthetic value in the minutiae of life. The fabric in my hand bears the marks of burns, stains, and stitches, each telling a story of its own. Fabric was my first canvas, the beginning of my artistic narrative.
Who were your early influences and how did they impact your career?
Early in my career, I had the privilege of attending IRAVM Institute of Visual Art, where I was exposed to diverse artistic influences and techniques. Artists like Ernest Breleur, Jean Louis Lebrun, and Valerie Jhon gave me guidance from mentors and fellow artists have been invaluable. Their insights and experiences have shaped my artistic journey, teaching me the importance of experimentation, perseverance, and collaboration in the arts.
Which three traits define you as an artist?
As an artist, I would define myself by my versatility, innovation, and commitment to creativity.
Please tell us more about your featured work in this year’s CAFA event.
My featured work in this year’s CAFA event draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including Caribbean culture, identity politics, and environmental concerns. Each piece tells a unique story, reflecting my exploration of these themes through vibrant colors, intricate textures, and dynamic compositions.
Caribbean symphony: “In this painting, I aim to visually depict the vibrant mosaic of Caribbean people coming together as a unified force, akin to a colorful symphony. Each individual, representing a different island or cultural heritage, contributes to the rich and diverse fabric of the region. The interwoven jewels of the Caribbean, symbolizing its precious cultural treasures, serve as the pulsating heartbeat of the world’s musical landscape. Against a backdrop of azure seas and swaying palm trees, these figures join in harmonious celebration, surrounded by the rhythmic motifs of music, from the lively beats of steel drums to the soulful melodies of reggae. Together, they create an evocative tableau that captures the essence of Caribbean unity and its profound impact on global culture.”
“Displacement” This painting beautifully captures the narrative of displacement. Brushstrokes intricately weave a story of both sorrow and resilience. Three figures stand amidst the canvas, two facing the viewer, symbolizing those who have been uprooted, their faces reflecting a mix of longing and determination. Vivid colors evoke the richness of Caribbean culture, with echoes of its music. In the distance, the vast expanse of space and stars serves as a reminder of the countless individuals who have been displaced, yet the enduring spirit of the homeland persists. “Displacement” stands as a poignant testament to resilience in the face of adversity.
“Urban Radiance” is an abstract masterpiece that captures the vibrant energy of Caribbean urban life. Bold splashes of color dance across the canvas, mirroring the lively essence of the region. Geometric shapes and organic patterns intertwine, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of architectural elements. These forms seem to shift and transform, conveying a sense of fluidity and motion. The canvas pulsates with bright hues that collide and overlap, infusing the composition with depth and vitality. Translucent brushstrokes add to the dynamic rhythm, drawing the viewer into a vibrant depiction of Caribbean street scenes. Fragmented shapes hint at bustling city life, inviting the imagination to wander through the lively streets of the islands.In the background, shimmering stars hint at the people of the Caribbean, their presence felt throughout the painting. This fluid scenery blurs the lines between solidity and fluidity, structure and spontaneity, creating a captivating interplay that keeps the viewer engaged. “Urban Radiance” is not just a painting; it’s a vivid celebration of Caribbean culture and the pulsating heartbeat of its cities.
‘Nomadic Splendor ‘ captures the captivating allure of the Caribbean’s diverse landscapes and cultures, seen through the prism of a nomadic lifestyle against a background filled with stars and space. This artwork embodies the essence of exploration and liberation, depicting individuals wandering freely and immersing themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of each encountered island. Through the lens of the nomadic traveler, the Caribbean unfurls as a boundless realm of discovery and fascination, where each footstep reveals a new adventure and every interaction unveils the vibrant mosaic of island life. It serves as a vibrant tribute to the nomadic spirit, wherein the journey itself becomes a testament to the magnificence of the Caribbean’s landscapes, cultures, and people, set against the backdrop of the infinite cosmos.
Please tell us more about your approach to producing work and choice of medium.
My approach to creating artwork is diverse and dynamic. Drawing inspiration from my environment, personal narratives, and societal concerns, I embark on a journey of exploration. Experimentation is at the heart of my process; I delve into various mediums such as painting, sculpture, and mixed media, allowing each piece to organically unfold its unique narrative. Within this creative realm, I find a delicate balance between instinct and purpose, aiming to communicate my concepts with sincerity and profound meaning. My preference leans towards large-scale and intricate paintings, where I immerse myself in the intricate details. The allure of mixed media allows me to unleash my creativity on any surface that can hold paint, pushing the boundaries of conventional expression. Moreover, I am passionate about recycling materials and giving them a second life, infusing sustainability into my artistic practice.”
What other projects are in the pipeline?
Currently, I hold the position of Art lecturer at the University of Guyana, where I continue to delve into themes of identity and culture through my artwork. In addition, I’m actively involved in several commissioned pieces aimed at fostering meaningful dialogues about the Caribbean and its pertinent social issues.”
Where can our readers find out more about you?
Readers can learn more about my work and stay updated on upcoming projects by visiting my website https://elodiecagesmith.com/ and following me on social media https://www.instagram.com/elodiecagesmith/?hl=en. I regularly share insights into my creative process, exhibition updates, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of my artistic journey.
The CaFA Fair Barbados returns to Bagnall’s Point Gallery, Pelican Village Craft Center, Bridgetown, Barbados from March 6 – 10, 2024, featuring 45 artists and galleries representing 16 Caribbean nations, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, UK, and the USA. For further information, please visit the official website
Featured works:
Elodie Cage-Smith – Caribbean Symphony – 2023 Mixed media 27.50″ x 19″
Elodie Cage-Smith – Displaced ‘2023 Mixed media 27,50″ x 19″
Elodie Cage-Smith – Urban Radiance 2023 Mixed media 20” x 16”
Elodie Cage-Smith – Nomadic Splendor 2023 Mixed media 20” x 16”
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