The Department of Culture highlighted the recipients of the 2023 Bermuda Arts Council Awards.
The public will be aware that the Arts Council was founded in 1969 with the aim of promoting awareness about the incredible value of the arts and to support its continued development and growth in Bermuda. The intent of the programme is to also provide funding to enhance, foster and strengthen arts and culture; support artistic excellence; and stimulate wider community appreciation and participation.
This year, five individuals were recognised in the categories of:
- The Founder Award, which is presented to those persons who are, or were, pioneers in their respective art form, and thus have been mentors/ role models for their fellow artists and the generations to follow.
- The Lifetime Achievement Award, which is presented to those persons who are respected in their art form, and who have created a significant body of original work that is representative of the Bermudian spirit; and
- The Patron Award, which is presented to those persons who have been benefactors to the Bermuda Arts Community. The award signifies the appreciation of the Bermudian community.
During a ceremony which took place on May 20 at the Earl Cameron Theatre the Department awarded:
Rosheena Beek, who was honoured posthumously, and Patricia Pogson-Nesbitt with the Lifetime Achievement Award, as they created significant bodies of original work that is representative of the Bermudian spirit.
St. Clair “Brinky” Tucker and Rick Spurling with the Founder Awards for being pioneers in their respective art form. They were recognized as being the “cornerstones” upon which the arts Bermuda have been built.
Clement Talbot with the Patron Award, as he has been a significant benefactor to the Bermuda Arts Community.
Also, during the ceremony former BAC Head, Jennifer Phillips, who recently stepped down as chairwoman, was recognized for her ten (10) years of service. Ms. Phillips was presented with a Bermuda Cedar bowl as a measure of appreciation.
The Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport, Sen. Owen K. Darrell, JP, said, “We were pleased to recognize these five recipients for the Arts Council Awards. These worthy Bermudians have inspired so many of us with their creative engagement and their artistic passion, and they should be applauded for their achievement. Our Ministry understands the importance of art expression in Bermuda. We will continue to support the work of the Arts Council as they shine a spotlight on the talent, hard work, and dedication of these and other deserving Bermudians.”