Master Artists of the Bahamas
Exhibition & Symposium
OCTOBER 2011

When one thinks of the Bahamas, surely the most prominent images which come to mind are drawn from travel advertisements. Even many who have visited this beautiful country have experienced little beyond the cluster of market stands which proliferate the port area of Nassau. But there is a rich and engaging culture thriving behind the walls of those shop walls. The Artists of the Bahamas exhibition and symposium are based on a film of the same title which highlights the Bahamas' most celebrated art makers - artists whose dynamic and distinctive creative work is perhaps not as well recognized within the U.S as it could or should be. Through this art, we can get a glimpse into the rich texture of Bahamian life and culture which exists beyond the beaches. This project, initiated by the Waterloo Center for the Arts (WCA) in cooperation with filmmaker Karen Arthur and The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, seeks to raise the profile of Bahamian art, bringing the work of Bahamian art to new audiences. Artists are finding their voice, sharing their unique identities, and connecting with the world in the art that will be featured. WCA is privileged to host this premiere exhibition of Bahamian art and is offering the exhibition for tour to other venues around the country.


Exhibition
October 14, 2011 - January 31, 2012

Opening reception: October 14, 7:00pm
featuring artist gallery talks

Experience Bahamian life and culture through the art of the country's leading artists. Featured artists range from intuitive to trained, and their works range from easel paintings to mixed media installations and environments. WCA is excited to present an exhibition of this caliber featuring the following master artists: Amos Ferguson, Kendal Hanna, Max Taylor, Brent Malone, Dave Smith, Eddie Minnis, Stan Burnside, Jackson Burnside, Antonius Roberts, John Beadle and John Cox.

There is no cost to view this exhibition. Gallery Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 1-5pm.

Symposium
October 14 & 15, 2011

Download Schedule

This 2-day symposium will include an exciting gala opening, scholarly presentations, and cultural celebrations including art, food and music. Master artists featured in the exhibition will be on hand to discuss their individual work as well as its socio-political context. Artist/musician Eddie Minnis will present a rare performance and the acclaimed Ruppapumpum will delight all with the distinctive sounds of the Junkanoo celebration. The event will also feature premiere screenings of films exploring and documenting the work of Bahamian artists and the award-winning filmmakers behind them, Karen Arthur and Thomas Neuwirth, will provide background and discussion.

Registration
$30/person

Register by calling the Waterloo Center for the Arts
(319) 291-4490.

To learn more about Master Artists of the Bahamas, please visit www.artistsofthebahamas.com
or click here to download an official media kit.