Castellani House, Guyana facts for kids

Castellani House is a big, historic building in Georgetown, Guyana. It was built a long time ago, in the late 1800s. You can find it right next to the Guyana Botanical Gardens. A talented architect named Cesar Castellani designed and built it between 1879 and 1882. For many years, important government officials lived there. But since 1993, Castellani House has been the home of Guyana's National Art Gallery. It's a special place where you can see amazing art from Guyana.

A Look Back: The History of Castellani House

Building a New Home

Castellani House was designed by Cesar Castellani. He was a very famous architect during the time when Guyana was a British colony. The house was first planned as a home for the government's plant expert, George Samuel Jenman.

Changes and New Residents

Mr. Jenman wasn't happy with the first design of the house. He asked for some changes to be made. These changes were finished in 1882, and Jenman finally moved in that same year. After Mr. Jenman passed away, other important agriculture officials lived in the house.

Growing Bigger

In 1942, Castellani House got bigger! A third floor was added to the original two. Later, in 1965, a Guyanese architect named Hugh McGregor Reid made even more changes to the building.

Home of the Prime Minister

From 1965 to 1985, Castellani House became the official home for Guyana's Prime Minister, Forbes Burnham, and his wife, Viola Burnham. During this time, people simply called it "the Residence." Later, in the 1990s, State House became the new official residence for the president.

Becoming an Art Gallery

After the Prime Minister moved out, Castellani House was carefully fixed up. In 1993, it opened its doors again as the National Art Gallery. This was a big moment for art in Guyana! The first person in charge of the gallery was Everley Austin, from 1994 to 1996. After that, Elfrieda Bissember took over in 1996 and is still the curator today.

The Art Collection

Castellani House is home to a fantastic collection of art. There are over 700 artworks inside! The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and other pieces by many talented Guyanese artists. Some of these artists are Frank Bowling, E. R. Burrowes, Stanley Greaves, Bernadette Persaud, George Simon, Denis Williams, and Aubrey Williams. It's a wonderful place to explore and learn about Guyanese culture through art.