June 3, 2002 – A display of historic architectural models by a Frederiksted native at the V.I. Cultural Heritage Institute in downtown Charlotte Amalie culminates the celebration of Historic Preservation Month in the Virgin Islands.
"An Exhibition of the Crafts of Mr. Luis Enrique Flores: Models of Historic Virgin Island Buildings" opened May 31. The exhibition will close on St. Thomas July 1, and open shortly thereafter on St. Croix.
Institute personnel are excited about the exhibit, since it's the first three-dimensional exhibit they've mounted, earlier shows have been photographs or paintings.
Flores, born and raised in Frederiksted, has been constructing historic models for more than ten years, according to a release from the V.I. Planning and Natural Resources Department. As a boy, he was taught by his perfectionist grandfather how to use various woodworking tools, as well as how to develop the eye and technique for precise detail.
Initially, he began demonstrating his love for this craft by making small-scale models, which became popular with St. Croix locals and visitors. As his passion grew, so did the size of his models: beautifully crafted pieces that show the original colors and fine details of historic Virgin Islands buildings. These models, some of which are included in this exhibition, serve as actual "historic documents," since some structures have been changed or no longer exist.
It is the hope of this craftsman, said the release, that the day never comes when all we possess of our architectural heritage are models, drawings, or photographs. He hopes his work will encourage and inspire Virgin Islanders to protect our historic architectural heritage.
The Institute is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on working days. Persons unable to visit the exhibit during that time are welcome to call to arrange a Saturday viewing. For more information contact the institute at 774-9537.
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