It is always a pleasure to visit another community to observe the artistic vitality of a region. We have been delighted to have been invited as guest jurors to work with Director Laura T; Gorham, Senior Curator Marlee Robinson and their friendly, able staff, and to meet many of the artists, Trustees and supporters of the Bermuda National Gallery.
During an intensive review of over 300 pieces of art by 39 artists we have been impressed with the talent and level of skill and proficiency demonstrated in this island country. We were delighted with the breadth of media, style, and subject matter. The criteria for our choices included artistic quality, technical know-how and execution as well as inspirational impact. We noted a particular strenght inpainting and works on paper. We also enjoyed viewing work that referred to the people, characteristics and traditions of Bermudian culture.
References to Bermuda, its land, people and environs demonstrated an awareness and appreciation for a unique sense of place. in addition to pride in a national identity, we saw innovation in contemporary approaches, especially in works on paper — printmaking, watercolour, pastel, and drawing. The works submitted represented a fairly well balanced group of representational and non-representational forms.
Island life and culture may have limitations, opportunities and challenges. The Bermudian art community as exemplified in the Bermuda National Gallery's Bacardi Limited Biennial is vibrant, active and alive. With this vibrancy the art scene in Bermuda is assured of an exciting future and great potential growth.
