Prestonism: Local artist and performer uses talents for hurricane relief

Artist and performer Preston Hanna has been using his talents for good causes since 2013.

A cast member of the Dream in Color show at Sandals Royal Bahamian, Hanna can regularly be found on stage creating a unique painting on canvas each week. The show was developed by Sandals Entertainment Manager Rhondi Treco and involves dancers performing to a variety of music genres. Starting with a blank canvas on stage, Hanna joins in the dancing and completes a painting between performances. At the end of the show, the painting is revealed and auctioned off. One hundred percent of the proceeds is donated to the Sandals Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts.

On November 5, the dynamic entertainment team will take to the College of The Bahamas stage with “Prestonism”. Branching off of the Dream in Color show, Prestonism will offer live art and dance along with new works by the artist. Like the Sandals show, the painting completed on stage will be auctioned off; this time, 100 percent of the proceeds will go toward relief for victims of Hurricane Joaquin.

The event will also be Hanna’s first solo show, at which he will unveil his “Coral of the Reef” series – a body of works drawing connections between indigenous coral reefs and the “strong, ambitious” Bahamian woman.

“This show has been in existence for years for the enjoyment of visitors from all over the world. I look forward to seeing it being revealed to the general public in its new, revamped form. It will also be my first solo exhibition, so I’m very excited,” said Hanna.

The evening also has an educational component – ticket and exhibition sales will help support Hanna’s future pursuit of a Master’s of Fine Art degree abroad.

An event for all ages, Hanna welcomes families to show their support.

“I expect anyone who has an appreciation for entertainment to attend,” he said. “The arts play such strong, pivotal roles in the make-up of our Bahamian culture, and this show caters to both young and old.”

“Prestonism” will be held at 7:30 p.m. on November 5 at the College of The Bahamas. Doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets are $20 for members of the general public and $10 for COB students with valid ID.