PORTRAITS of MIDDLE CAICOS
By Siri Tunaal White

CONCH BAR, MIDDLE CAICOS
SUNDAY MARCH 11TH , 2007 : 4PM
International premiere opening of “Portraits of Middle Caicos”

Daniel Forbes, proprietor of the Middle Caicos Co-op, presented a special exhibition of black & white photographs by artist Siri White to local residents of Middle Caicos in a transformed community centre. The exhibition featured portraits of the proud women and men of the island of Middle Caicos as they go about their daily lives in their own traditional manner. A lifestyle of dignity, hard work, nature, friendship and spirituality is reflected in thematic grouping of portraits. Elegantly laid out, the exhibit featured seven large panels of photographs, grouped to themes as follows:

COMMUNITY SPIRIT
- the inspiring men and women of Middle Caicos – proud, loyal and tough
SEAFARING LIFE
- a boat building tradition maintained for transport, fishing and fun
THE LAND
- a wealth of knowledge about to be lost
SCHOOL
- modern education brought with a smile
CHURCH
- the essence of Middle Caicos spirituality
ALTON HIGGS
- a very special man

The exhibition was very well attended, with residents from all villages coming by both on Sunday and again on Monday to see Middle Caicos through new eyes, and support the work of Daniel and Siri to record the people and traditions of this special island. Lively conversation filled the community centre as residents discussed the photographs of themselves, the lifestyle of Middle Caicos presented, their welcome for the event and generally visited together. It was a pleasant gathering for all, and for all ages. Light refreshments of sparkling punch, fruits and chicken wings were passed. The photographer, Siri White was on hand, along with host Daniel Forbes, to greet exhibit guests and show them around the panels. All avidly talked about plans to expand the collection of photos and Siri will be back on Middle with her camera soon. The exhibit will be shown in Provo in June 2007 at the Middle Caicos Co-op centre in Blue Hills.

The generous sponsorship of Meridian Trust Company Ltd. toward transportation and refreshments is gratefully acknowledged and many thanks to Sara J Kaufman of Middle Caicos Co-op Services for administration, organization and encouragement provided.