Chronicles and Critters Brings Belizean History to Life Through Art
Telling Belizean Stories Through Art
Today’s episode of Open Your Eyes explored the upcoming “Chronicles and Critters” exhibition, featuring artists Rachael Heusner and her son Dean Martin Superville as they bring Belizean history, everyday life, and personal memories to life through their artwork.
The mother-and-son duo has built a creative partnership through years of painting, drawing, murals, and exhibitions. “Chronicles and Critters” marks their third exhibition together in Belize, following previous showcases both locally and in Trinidad and Tobago.
Where History Meets the Imagination
For Dean, the exhibition takes familiar aspects of Belizean life and presents them in a more playful and imaginative way. Animals, street scenes, and everyday experiences become characters with personalities and stories of their own.
His work draws inspiration from the things he observes around him, transforming ordinary moments into humorous and relatable pieces that allow viewers to connect with Belizean life from a different perspective.
The “critters” in the exhibition are therefore more than simply animals. They become a way of telling stories about people, relationships, neighborhoods, and the experiences that make up everyday life.
Preserving Memories Through Art
For Rachael, the “chronicles” are rooted in personal memories and Belizean history. Some of her pieces recreate scenes from earlier periods of Belize’s development, including older vehicles and landmarks that have changed over time.
She explained that creating historically inspired pieces requires careful attention to detail and often involves drawing on the memories of older generations. She even shared some of her work privately with her father, who was able to identify buildings, scenes, and stories connected to the pieces.
That process highlights how art can help preserve memories that might otherwise fade, while giving younger generations another way to connect with Belize’s past.
Art for Everyone
The artists also emphasized that art is not only about selling artwork. While the pieces are available for purchase, exhibitions also provide an opportunity for people to experience art, reflect on the stories behind it, and connect with their culture.
They acknowledged the importance of making art more accessible, particularly for people who may have difficulty accessing certain venues. The exhibition will also be featured through television, allowing people who cannot attend in person to still experience the work.
A Free Exhibition for the Public
“Chronicles and Critters” will be held at the Bliss Art Gallery, with the exhibition opening at 6:00 PM on October 12 and running through October 17.
Admission is free, and all of the artwork on display will be available for purchase. The artists will be present to provide information about the pieces and assist interested buyers.
The conversation also hinted at future possibilities for the artwork, including potential projects that could take the characters and stories beyond the gallery into formats such as books, comic-style projects, and merchandise.
Through “Chronicles and Critters,” Rachael Heusner and Dean Martin Superville continue to demonstrate how Belizean stories can be preserved, reimagined, and shared through art.