Senator David Thompson officially opens Grand Bahama Artists Association’s Valentine Art Exhibition

GBAA from lt President Kino Coakley,Secretary Janice Corkery,Senator Thompson, Treasurer Alisa Streather Robinson, Vice President Steve Stubbs, PR Del Foxton

FREEPORT, Grand Bahama -- The Art lovers of Grand Bahama turned out in numbers at the official opening for the month long 2010 Grand Bahama Artists Association’s Valentine Art Exhibition.

Senator David Thompson gave words of congratulations to the artists and art patrons who gathered at the Glory Banks Art Gallery at the Rand Nature Centre.

For the month of February, in the professional setting of Grand Bahama’s Glory Banks Art Gallery, residents and visitors will have an opportunity to view and purchase an eclectic collection of art works.

Senator David Thompson reinforced the Government of the Bahamas’ commitment to actively promote Art and Culture in our country.  This works well with the Bahamas National Trust who actively promotes many cultural, educational and artistic exhibits for the Grand Bahama community. 

Glory Banks, herself an artist, was anxious to give Grand Bahama, her adopted home, a centre for art and entrusted the Bahamas National Trust to carry out her dream.  The BNT officially opened the Glory Banks Art Gallery in February 2008.  There are over 200 pieces in the Glory Banks Collection in the Art Gallery, some of which are on permanent exhibition.

The Bahamas National Trust and the Glory Banks Art Gallery supports the activities of the Grand Bahama Artists Association, a non-profit organization whose mission is to facilitate the development of art and culture on the island. 

Some of the artists and their work featured in the exhibition. Photos: Del Foxton

Senator Thompson said that through partnerships such as that of the BNT and the GBAA, an appreciation of Arts and Culture will only continue to grow because our unique traditions and heritage will attracts tourists, create jobs and generate income. 

It has often been said that art and culture improves the quality of life.  At the Valentine Art Exhibition take advantage of the opportunity to meet the artists.  They can personally give you insight into their work.   Grand Bahama Artists Association membership includes Art Teachers that provide art classes in a variety of mediums for the someone in the family that shows artistic talent.  They will be at the Glory Banks Gallery.

The GBAA artists say that Roses are wonderful and Chocolates absolutely delicious but for a gift that lasts, choose a gift of ART. So visit the Valentine Art Exhibition during the month of February for a gift for yourself or the special person in your life.

The Glory Banks Art Gallery at the Rand Nature Centre is open Monday to Friday 9 to 4 pm.