Yohance Bowen (In Photo), winner of Bahamas Unite Art Competition

Bahamians and visitors were united in love and service as they joined a patriotic company at their second annual art competition  under the theme “Bahamas Unite.” Bahamian Illustrated believes it was a wonderful event indeed. One that started relatively on time, only five to ten minutes later than announced.  Nevertheless it started with a meaning and ended with a feeling – proud to be a Bahamian.

After a prayer of protection by none other than Pastor Adams, the CEO of Bahamian Illustrated opened the event with her welcome remarks: “The Bahamian motto ‘forward, upward, onward and together’ was the real inspiration for this year’s theme – ‘Bahamas Unite.’ We are happy for the amount of support we have received from our sponsors,  participants, and you our audience.” Ms. Cooper then pointed to the remarkable pieces that were made by the various high school students and wanted to be the first to openly applaud their achievements in an area they were obviously passionate about.

The show began. The dynamic hostess Antonia Wilson took the stage. She really had the crowd going. A number of great games and prizes followed. There was also a sketch competition of which both students and parents participated. A special award was given, deemed – Audience choice.

The audience were asked out of the top 5 finalist, which one produced the nicest piece in their opinion; this person would receive ”the audience choice award”. Unanimously the crowd chose Vernesse Henderson’s work. Understandably so, Ms. Henderson actually only scored three points less than the winner.  She was given a gift certificate for a photo shoot sponsored by Quality Photography.

There were also lots of  door prizes which were graciously donated by members of the Bazaar’s Tenants Association which is a compilation of business owners within the International Bazaar.  Light refreshments immediately followed this fantastic event. The only real difference with this year’s competition and that of last year is  the live auction that was held near the end of the show. This auction afforded students with the opportunity to sell their pieces and get a taste of what passion can pay.

Bahamian Illustrated looks forward to hosting more events like this one and thanks their sponsors, students,  judges and members of the public for their continuous support.

Listed are the Top Finalists:

1ST Place- Yohance Bowen (Eight Mile Rock High)

2nd            – Vernesse Henderson (Bishop Michael Eldon High)

3rd              – Natasha Hall                (Jack Hayward High School)

4th            – Zanifa Darville             (Sunland Baptist Academy)

4th           – Whitney Duncombe    (Eight Mile Rock High)

5th          – Lynea Hall                          (Bishop Michael Eldon High)

6th         – Dion Wildgoose                (St. Gorges High School)

7th        – Arlarice Lewis                  (Sunland Baptist Academy)

8th       – Albert Simms                    (St. Georges  High)

9th      -  Sayar Rolle                          (Grand Bahama Catholic High)

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There is a lot of talent here in the Bahamas, but most of it is undiscovered. It is hard to gain recognition in our own country, especially in the area of art. But this unfortunate circumstance doesn’t stop artists from trying. One very talented artist in particular is Tyrone Fowler.

Tyrone Fowler, a proud Bahamian Wood Carver, has been carving wood since he was 12 years old. He was born in New Providence and is a descendent of Andros & Cat Island. Mr. Fowler has done many other jobs, but has found himself always returning back to his true passion, which is wood carving.

What inspired Mr. Fowler was going out to Rawson Square and hanging around artist wood carvers like Bill Freed, Henry Wallace and Audley Jones. From there he practiced and eventually became an artist wood carver himself. Over the years he has done over 200,000 wood carved pieces. He uses Madeira Bark, Horse Flesh and, his most preferred, Cedar Wood. He prefers this particular type of wood for its durability; because the only way of destroying Cedar Wood is by burning it.

Some of his works include carving an 18 ft standing Roman figure for a gentleman named Lyn Castleman from Florida, carving a portrait of the famous Bob Marley and even Tyler Perry the creator of the hit Films and Plays, “Madea”.

As any hopeful artist, Tyrone is looking forward to selling his wood carvings and one day establishing a name for himself as an  internationally known Bahamian wood carver. Bahamian Illustrated is willing and would gladly support and promote any Bahamian that needs to be discovered. Mr. Tyrone Fowler isn’t the first, but most certainly will not be the last.

Interested in any of Mr. Fowler’s pieces, contact 1-242-352-1120

Despite the Challenge of operating a business during these difficult times, local Companies once again lend their support to Bahamian Illustrated as they host their 2nd annual High School Art Competition, “Bahamas Unite.”  The host company is a Marketing and Graphics Company that strongly believes in the cultivation and development of our Youth through Art and Culture. This company looks forward to seeing interesting Bahamian artwork portrayed by young Bahamian artists.

The Competition will be held on Sunday, March 25th 2012 at 4:00pm in the Arcade of the International Bazaar.  The theme, “Bahamas Unite” will be portrayed through Art as almost 50 participants of the various High Schools will be submitting their pieces for a chance to win this highly competitive, most sort after Art Competition geared towards harnessing the artistic talents of Students between the ages of 15 -18 years old.

The students are currently working on their Bahamian paintings and drawings as they are very eager and excited about this Competition; many of which participated in last year’s competition and is determined to take away a prize this year.

During this year’s event, students will see the value of Art as some of their pieces will be up for a live Auction on the day of the event. Members of the audience will have an opportunity to purchase some of these beautiful pieces. All participants will also have a chance to participate in numerous competitions, games and giveaways during the event.

Exciting prizes will be given to Artists with the finest pieces. Prizes will include: Round Trip Ticket to a Family Island (Regional Air), Book Grants, Cell Phone with Wi-Fi, Digital Camera, Gift Certificates and Complete Art Kits.

Entrance deadline for the Art competition is March 2nd 2012. B.I. anticipates a minimum of 6 schools participation including; Bishop Michael Eldon High, Grand Bahama Catholic High, Jack Hayward High, St. Pauls Methodist College, St. Georges High School and Sunland Baptist Academy.

This event is sponsored by Regional Air, Adagio Art, Grand Bahama Port Authority, DK Griffith and Associates, T’s Perfume Depot, Jewelry Repair, Health Springs Community Pharmacy, Imagine Graphics and Printing, Foto Factory, David Standerwick, Pyramid Propane Systems Services, Paradise Jewels, Sawyers Fresh Market, Martha’s Sons and Daughters and The Smith Family.

Executives of Bahamian Illustrated, encourages the Community to come out and support the talented Bahamian artists of Grand Bahama. Next year the competition will be extended to the Island of Abaco as well.

AN EVENING OF FUN, ART, FASHION AND MUSIC and it was that!

THE Meeting of Minds Expo at the Canal House on Saturday night WAS a fun event that enlightened Grand Bahamians and guests to the amazing art, fashion, photography and musical talent on the island.

The evening showcased an eclectic collection of artworks from Alisa Robinson, Del Foxton, Jacki Boss, Ken Heslop, Ken Sandberg, Helen Madill, Shirley Blain and Sheldon Saint.  It was the opportunity for guests to meet several of the artists in person and invite them to view more works at the Glory Banks Art Gallery in the Rand Nature Centre.

The artists of the Grand Bahama Artists Association joined artisans from Saint George Fashion House, Le Maison De Besh, John Heath Jewelers, Lyndah Wells Photography and Mango Tree Media.

The evening offered champagne, hors d’oeuvres, prizes, fashion shows and amazing shopping opportunities.

The organizers of Meeting of the Minds, Ashley Baker & Sean Johnson are donating proceeds to the GB Humane Society because HSGB holds a special place for them and they believe that as a community we need to come together to help the HSGB more!

For more information about the Grand Bahama Artists Association call 242 343 4333. 

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You are invited to meet the artists of the Grand Bahama Artists Association on Thursday February 9th, 2012 at 7 pm, Rand Nature Centre’s Glory Banks Art Gallery Freeport GBI, at their annual Valentine Art Exhibition.

They will be presenting an eclectic collection of artworks from professional and emerging artists. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served.

They look forward to seeing you!

The Valentine Art Exhibition may be viewed until February 29th.

Meeting of Minds Fashion, Art & Music Expo is an exciting event that is thoughtfully in aid of the Grand Bahama Humane Society. Its aim is to help to explore and further enlighten the people of Grand Bahama about the amazing art, fashion, photography, and musical talent that we have available to the public.

Fantastic features of the evening will be Principal Fashion designer of The Saint George Fashion House Mr. Kazz Forbes, Ms. Basheva Eve of Le Maison De Besh, John Heath Jewelers, Ms. Lyndah Wells of Lyndah Wells Photography, and Mark Winder of Mango Tree Media, and many more.

The event will be held at Pelican Bay in The Canal House Saturday February 11th, 2012 at 7pm through to 10:30pm, tickets are $40.00 and are available at Bristol Wines, The Art of Giving, Gizmos & Gadgets, and the Grand Bahama Humane Society

Proceeds will be donated to The Grand Bahama Humane Society because it is very much needed and holds a special place for the two creators of the event, and as a community we need to come together to help the HSGB more!

Tip Burrows quoted, ” The HSGB is pleased to once again be working with Ashley Baker & Sean Johnson, were very grateful for the concern given by these young people, for our animals and appreciate all the support from the public as it is necessary in order for the HSGB to operate. We look forward to this event as it should be a great one.”

Freeport, Grand Bahama Island – The newly-developed artist’s collective, “Art Nucleus ” announces the Blue-Green Exhibition set for Friday, November 25th at L’Utopia. The exhibit will include paintings, installation works, conceptual pieces and video. Artists participating are Jacki Boss, multimedia artist; Susan Moir Mackay, conceptual artist and writer; Omar Smith, conceptual photographer and writer; Patrick Forbes, filmmaker; Del Foxton, handmade paper artist; Ken Heslop, multimedia artist; and Ebony Ferguson, painter.

“The concept we are trying to promote is acceptance and interest in a wider variety of “fine art” from both the community and the artists themselves,” said exhibition curator, Jacki Boss. “The artists have integrated various materials into their works, besides traditional paintings on canvas with acrylic or oil, viewers will experience a fusion of mixed media elements including handmade papers, recycled materials, lighting and a medley of unorthodox objects.  The artists have also provided a statement with each of their works, explaining their interpretation to the Blue-Green theme.  This exhibit is bound to stir conversations of intrigue and inquiry.”

The intention behind the Exhibit is to confront and test the participating artists with their ability to meet this challenge by incorporating semantics and personal views into their works, and to encourage the viewing public to be open to and embrace alternative translations.  This combined diligence is to initiate the process of understanding the artist’s role in a society, and importance of it.

Written by:

Del Foxton

Grand Bahama Artists Association is pleased to announce that their annual Thanksgiving Art Exhibition will once again be presented at the beautiful Rand Nature Centre, Glory Banks Gallery in Freeport Grand Bahama.  

At the opening reception, 7 pm Thursday November 10^th, local and international artists will be in attendance to present a variety of traditional, contemporary and abstract artworks.

Visitors to the Thanksgiving Art Exhibition will have the opportunity to view and purchase unique artworks that are not available in stores.  The Exhibition includes artworks in oil, water colours, wood work, handmade paper and pastels that depict many subjects including, sea and landscapes, migrating birds, flowers AND Bahamian Sea Creatures.    

The Rand Nature Centre is a perfect setting for this wonderful art.  The members of the Grand Bahama Artists Association invite you to take time to visit this oasis that is only minutes away from downtown Freeport.  The opening hours of the Rand Nature Center’s Glory Banks Gallery are Monday to Friday 9:00am to 4:00 pm and the Gallery is also now open Saturdays from 8:30am to 2:00pm. 

It is interesting to note that the Grand Bahama Artists Association a nonprofit organization whose goal is to assist the membership’s development as artists through art exhibitions, workshops and lectures but the GBAA also strives to assist in establishing an appreciation of the arts within the community.

To this end the GBAA Thanksgiving Art Exhibition offers the opportunity for students, teachers and the general public exposure to a variety of artistic influences right here on Grand Bahama.  The Thanksgiving Exhibition will continue at the Rand Nature Center’s Glory Banks Gallery until Saturday November 26^th.

For more information about the Grand Bahama Artists Association call 242 353 4333.

Del Foxton

242 353 4333

delfoxton@hotmail.com

www.delfoxton.com

It is SPRING TIME. Everything is coming comes to life; more flowers in bloom, the green world becomes greener, outdoor enthusiasts are more active with home improvements, in the garden, on the trail and on the seas. It’s a time of regeneration and celebration as many religions observe special holidays during this period.
It is easy to understand why spring is a favorite time of year for many people and it is easy to see why the artists of the GBAA have a spring in their step.

Spring means the opening of the Grand Bahama Artists Association, Spring Art Exhibition and Sale at the Rand Nature Centre in the Glory Banks Art Gallery and this spring is a special one for the GBAA as it marks its sweet sixteenth year.

As the artists of the GBAA once again present their Bahamian art work we reflect on what the world would be without the beauty expressed through the hearts of our artists. Whether the Bahamian artist is an amateur or professional, their shared vision is important to a society. It is art that will remain for centuries as nations as cultures rise and fall.

Bahamas art lovers and patrons will appreciate the works of local and international artists shown in the Gallery along with emerging artists, who have not yet displayed or sold their work in commercial settings. A variety of styles and media will be available for viewing and purchasing pleasure.

It is often said that beauty truly is “in the eye of the beholder” and that art is completely subjective. Yet we can appreciate the arts and those who courageously share their visions with the world. One does not have to be an artist or critic to truly identify with the visual arts. Opportunities to view and experience an art form broadens, enriches and inspires.

Everyone is welcome to visit the Glory Banks Art Gallery. It is a place where anyone of any age can take that first or continuing step into the world of art – either as an artist or one who simply appreciates art. It is important that we support the arts…it is good for our spirit.

GBAA First Art Exhibition

The GBAA Spring Art Exhibition and Art Sale will be held at the Rand Nature Centre from April 1st to April 25th. Please come and help us celebrate our sixteenth year.
For more information about the art exhibition or to become a member of the Grand Bahama Artists Association, please contact Del Foxton at 353 4333.

Anxiously awaiting the results of Bahamian Illustrated’s first Annual Art competition; participating students, parents and supporting fans lined the Arcade of the International Bazaar on Saturday March 19th at 3:00pm. There were five judges: Mrs. Susan Moir Mackay, Mrs. Chantal Bethel, Mrs.Ruthann Newton- Lightbourne, Antonio Smith and Mr. Andre Cartwright; all with Artistic backgrounds.

There were 27 entries of bahamian art work for the competition and the breakdown were as follows:
9 Entries from Eight Mile Rock High (Mostly included bahamian paintings)
7 Entries from Bishop Michael Eldon High School
9 Entries from St. Pauls Methodist College
2 Entries from Grand Bahama Catholic High

The winners of the competition are:

1st Place – Piaget Moss, Grand Bahama Catholic High School (224 points)

2nd Vashti- Eve Burrows, Bishop Michael Eldon High (220 points)
3rd Breann Bannister, Bishop Michael Eldon (180 points)
3rd Taniya Rolle, Bishop Michel Eldon High (180 points)
4th Jermaine North, Eight Mile Rock High (170 points)
5th Jasmine Ferguson , Bishop Michael Eldon High (170 points)
Honorables
6th Place Luke Ignace, Eight Mile Rock High
7TH Place Shane Smith, St. Pauls Methodist College
8th Place Keno Ignace, Eight Mile Rock High

The winner, Piaget Moss will receive Round Trip Cruise for 2 (Discovery Cruise Line) and a 4 Week employment opportunity at Bahamian Illustrated, with focus on Logo Design, Graphics and Website Building.
The judges judged the pieces based on the following Criterias:
Presentation,
Design (appropriate use of elements: texture, color, form, line etc).
Originality, Creativity
Item Appropriately Finished
Depicting the theme

Raffles and door prizes were also given out to the audience, of which were generously sponsored by local businesses. Sponsors of the event were:
Discovery Cruise line, Sawyers Fresh Market, 1.9.6 Boutique, Jewellery Repair, Burger King, Pollo Tropical, Large Gems Boutique, Essentials, T’s Perfume Depot, Control Chemicals, Hi Tech Electronics, All About U Beauty Supply and Clothing,
Goldy Locks Jewelry, The Perfume Factory, The Art of Giving, Cindy’s Roti Hut, Transition Clothing, Head 2 Toe, La Kay’s Barber Shop, Mr. David Standerwick, The Love Shack, Glorious Fashion and Precious Children.

The event was very successful!

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