Karen Sylvester, a self-taught Trinidadian artist known for her lush landscapes and waterscapes, will present her latest exhibition "Somewhat Familiar" at Studio Joli in St James, Trinidad, from October 18 to 30, 2025. The show features works inspired by her childhood on the banks of a river in the Northern Range of Trinidad, created through direct observation, sketches, photographs, and visual memory. Sylvester has been exhibiting since 1993 and is widely respected in the region, with her work held in the National Museum and private collections.
This exhibition matters because it highlights the work of a prominent Caribbean artist who has built a significant career without formal training, relying instead on intense observation of her natural environment. Sylvester's practice also underscores the role of artists in environmental conservation and community engagement, as she participates in art auctions, lectures, and mentorship. The show offers viewers a chance to connect with Trinidad's natural beauty through an artist who transforms physical landscapes into emotional experiences.