NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Just in time for National Youth Month, Sandals Emerald Bay recently provided a platform for promising young artists to showcase their talent.
Exuma’s first-ever art show and competition, providing a platform featuring 35 artists, ranging from primary to senior high school students, who displayed 51 pieces of extravagant and colorful art.
As the resort’s ballroom was transformed into the youngsters’ private gallery, those in attendance were captivated by the abundant talent and passion exhibited by the artists.
The inaugural event was the brainchild of well-known local artist and teacher Eddie Nixon who pitched the idea to the Sandals Emerald Bay team for a partnership.
“This event sends a powerful message to our youths that their artistic interests are of value and there is a place for them in the Bahamian society and the world,” said resort General Manager Jeremy Mutton.
“The students can feel confident that they are being seen, heard, and understood through platforms such as these which allow them to present themselves in a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment.”
For Nixon, the success of the initiative despite minimal funding was encouraging. “Hopefully, the community gets involved by providing sponsors and more donations,” he said.
“Speaking as educators/artists, we are operating on limited resources and receiving donations would greatly assist the schools on the island. The first annual art show and competition demonstrates our best efforts to pool our resources to create a better Exuma for future generations”.
The participants, their audiences and judges inside the transformed art gallery were also treated to a musical performance by saxophonist Pablo Smith, a student of the L N Coakley High School.
All students received certificates of participation and the top three artists across nine categories were further awarded gift certificates and medals.
One such winner was Chelsea McLaughlin, grade five student at St. Andrews Anglican School who won first-place in the Primary School Category. She was elated, sharing: “I didn’t know I would win but my mommy encouraged me. I love animals and my favorite was a cute drawing of a swimming pig. I feel very proud of myself. I will be back next year.”
Grade twelve student at L N Coakley Dazz McPhee took home the overall Senior School Category top prize. He shared that art is his favorite thing to do at school. “I was very happy to participate at Sandals and have my friends and parents with me and I actually won,” he said.
Meanwhile, seventh grader at St Andrews Valentino Newton lauded the display at the art show. “My pieces were inspired by Jean-Michael Basquiat, a world-renowned artist. I want to thank Mr Nixon for encouraging me to complete my submission,” Newton shared. He also left words of encouragement for his colleagues.
“For the students of Exuma with a love of art, I just want to say that you can be a successful artist or an architect, we are not limited to any career field.”
