Public Treasury Art Program (PTAP): May 2012

Last Friday crowds filled The Public Treasury Building as it opened its doors to the general public for its second art exhibition, Nurturing Brotherhood. The evening brought together supporters, patrons, and art lovers from the public and private sectors, the creative industry, and several educational institutions along with the participating artists and students from New Providence, Abaco and Grand Bahama. It was undoubtedly a well-attended evening that was enjoyed by many.

Sir William Allen, Former Governor of The Central Bank of The Bahamas and Ms. Eugenia Cartwright, Treasurer of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas officially open Nurturing Brotherhood. (Photo by Torell Glinton)

Following the success of its Inaugural exhibition, Bahama Mama featuring female artists and writers this spring PTAP geared its focus toward recognizing young Bahamian men. Sixteen professional artists and seventeen high school students were selected to participate in this all male event which began with a three week mentorship program and culminates with a five month exhibition where the artists showcase their work alongside their protégés.

The Treasurer of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Ms. Eugenia Cartwright in her welcome address expressed her hopes for the program to serve as a catalyst to propel young men on their artistic journey. The Former Governor of The Central Bank of The Bahamas, Sir William Allen who launched the Central Bank’s Art Competition and Exhibition, supported Ms. Cartwright and predicted that PTAP “will have a greater impact on the development of the arts than you now imagine”.

Three students were presented with awards for their outstanding performance and contributions to the event. Jeremy Storr, of C.V Bethel High School was first place winner of the Treasurer’s Award for his piece, The Afternoon Light an acrylic painting that depicts a Poinciana tree in full bloom. He thanked PTAP for the opportunity and his mentor Dion Lewis for the experience saying, “I am very proud. I really enjoyed the program and learned a lot from Mr. Lewis”. Second place winner was Kirkwood Deal of Kingsway Academy with My African Inception, and in third place Demetrius Neymour of Eight Mile Rock High School with The Smooth Groovers.

Left to right: Jeremy Storr - 1st Place, Kirwood Deal - 2nd Place, Demetrius Neymour - 3rd Place, (Photos by Torell Glinton)

The exhibition includes a variety of media from ceramics, sculptures, mixed media, and photography mixed with a diverse range of paintings. The artwork that has been seen to draw the most attention are those by professional artists, which are underpinned by social issues or those which use unconventional techniques.

Sir William Allen, Former Governor of The Central Bank of The Bahamas and Mary Mitchell, Senior Deputy Treasurer of The Commonwealth of The Bahamas admire “Prelude” by Kishan Munroe. (Photo by Torell Glinton)

Kishan Munroe’s Prelude is a photographic series showing the juxtapositions of cause and effect – a prelude to imminent disaster focusing on the plight of the impoverished in Haiti.

Jace Mckinney’s A Kiss for Angelo inspired by the story of a young man who was the victim of gang violence. The piece first expresses the innocent joys of a life that Mckinney wishes the young man had experienced. It ultimately illuminates a desire for the youth to come together to heal the wounds of violence through love and peace.

Allan P. Wallace was the artist chosen to produce the painting used as the cover artwork to promote the exhibition. His piece entitled, Triumph represents the pursuit of happiness not only for one’s self, but men as a united force pulling together and striving for a common goal.

Kenon Grant’s student, Alton Joseph admires his mentor’s work entitled, “The End of The Line” (Photo by Torrell Glinton)

Kenon Grant’s pieces were created using a wood burning technique where he burns the surface of the wood to create his artistic impression.

Bahamian Artist Christina Fernander admires Shieko Hoyte’s work (Photo by Torell Glinton)

Shieko Hoyte’s peacock embraces a style of painting he refers to as Mekhivingian”. This technique involves creating a three-dimensional effect by placing elements of the painting on an invisible grid, in the foreground of the painting.

“We are pleased with the turnout for the opening which is evidence of the growing interest and appreciation for the arts in The Bahamas. It is crucial that we support and encourage budding artists so as they mature in their respective fields they appreciate the value of their craft, and realize the important role they play in contributing to the advancement of our creative industry," says exhibition coordinator, Keisha Oliver.

The exhibition runs until October 2012 and PTAP invites the general public to support the artists and students by visiting the gallery space. Schools and tour operators are encouraged to contact PTAP by telephone or email to arrange guided tours. For more information on Nurturing Brotherhood and the participating artists or students please contact PTAP via email on ptap.bahamas@gmail.com.

Participating mentors:
Allan P. Wallace, Andret John, Anthony Morley, Damaso Gray, Desmond Darville, Dion Lewis, Ellery Deveaux, Jace McKinney, Kenon Grant, Kishan Munroe, Lou Lihou, Omar Richardson, Scharad Lightbourne, Sheldon Saint, Shieko Hoyte, Zyandric Jones

Participating students:
Logan Brown, Dante Fernander, Woodlyn Saunders, Jeffery Pierre, Demetrius Neymour, Lynden Farrington, Jeremy Storr, Raekwon Rolle, Darren Knowles, Alton Joseph, Ashton Adderley, Yohancé Bowen, Kirkwood Deal, Joshua Thompson, Marvin Delancy, Christophe Zonicle, Antoine Edmond