Art of the Month: Shanty Town Tea Service

On my way to work, I noticed that a familiar town had been demolished. Boards and other forms of structure that once housed a community lay broken on the ground.

I’ve always known that the town enclosed by trees and bushes was there, but when it was exposed, the size and difference of the town was a shock. I was looking at another way of living, another standard of living; how certain groups of people lived.

July 2nd, 2014, Tracy-Ann Perpall, also known as TAP, released a documentary on YouTube called Bwapen: Village Documentary. This documentary gave insight on the burning of a ‘shanty town’ village off of Joe Farrington Road and the Haitian-Bahamian situation in the Bahamas. Perpall’s investigation into this tragedy unearthed tensions between Bahamian landowners and ‘shanty town’ residents, the true conditions of said ‘shanty towns’, and ended by questioning the public. “Does real change occur with dismantling Bwapen, or is it just a band-aid attempting to cover the symptoms of underlying problem” – Tracy Ann Perpall.

Over the past year and a half, the government has been working to effectively address and act upon the issue of growing shantytowns within New Providence. Over the past year and a half, the island has experienced a mass exposure of those towns, several fires of buildings in the towns, and demolition and plans of demolition for some areas. These issues of immigration and the living standards of some immigrants and poor Bahamians in the Bahamas have not popped up over night.

In 2011, Jeffrey Meris, a graduate of the College of the Bahamas and a Popop Junior Prize Winner, constructed Shanty Town Tea Service, which is on display in the Bahamian Domestic exhibition. As a Haitian-Bahamian, Meris comments on the Haitian-Bahamian situation and the view of said people through the manipulation of clay. The class of a tea service is not often compared or associated with standard of shantytowns. Contradictory in some senses, some may say. The standards of shanty towns deemed as “environments that incubate horrible, horrible health challenges,” by Duane Miller does not compare with the dainty, polished China set utilized during tea parties.

In 2011, Jeffrey Meris was concluding his studies at the College of the Bahamas. He commented on the social structure of shantytowns within the Bahamas. In 2014, Tracy-Ann Perpall exposed the social structure of a forgotten shantytown in her documentary. At the later part of 2014, the relevance of the conversation still prevails. During the late part of 2014, on my way to work, I noticed that a familiar town had been demolished.

Shanty Town Tea Service
Jeffrey Meris
Dawn Davies Collection

Written by NAGB Gallery Assistant, Jodi Minnis for the Art of the Month.

NAGB INTERN: La'Dea Gem Roberts

W E E K   O N E

Dear Bloggers,

First & Foremost, I am Gem Roberts, an aspiring artist and aspiring computer information systems specialist. This past week, being my first week as an intern at NAGB has been informative and event filled, including this past Wednesday being the fortieth year of independence for my Bahamas.

Not only did I begin by becoming familiar with the grounds, met the other interns Dyah and Ashante, and helped in preparation for the 40 years of Bahamian Art exhibition, but I was able to attend and work as a part of the NAGB team during the event. This was the pinnacle of my week, being able to work an exhibition opening. Words cannot describe the pleasure I felt in being apart of something I have a passion for, during fortieth independence milestone of my country, alongside such welcoming team members, and being able to see so many members of society and dignitaries awes and reactions towards this great exhibition; quadruple the pleasure.

Needless to say, I was very tired after working such an event. Being an aspiring artist myself, this event only motivated me to strive even harder to one day have my very own art featured in such an exhibition. This Friday following the exhibition premier, I was able to become familiar with the texts of Bahamian Artists sold in the NAGB store and critique them. Overall, this week has been a very inspirational and nothing short of exciting. I'll close by reiterating a very popular quote by Confucius I felt put into action this week, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”.

-L. Gem Roberts

NAGB INTERN: Dyah Neilson

 W E E K   O N E

Starting our internship, another intern, Ashante, and I were given a brief tour of the grounds in order to familiarize ourselves with the building and its history. We also read catalogues concerning exhibitions that were on display at the time to get an idea of what has been happening inside the gallery, as well as gain some knowledge about famous Bahamian artists. This knowledge was further enhanced later in the week by visiting Antonius Roberts’ Hillside House, where we learned more about the artist and even about galleries themselves. During the course of the week, I was able to experience most, if not all, of the departments that help in the running of the NAGB.

I assisted with the education department in calling numerous places such as the many public schools on the island, as well as a craft store to ask for a quote on tools that would be needed for the John Beadle workshop that was taking place that weekend. Ashante and I were then given a hands-on job in which we cut cardboard for the workshop. In the in-between time, I was able to work with the curatorial department as well, and was quickly taught the right way in which to move and transport paintings. I realized that though I had handled artwork many times before, there was still much, much more I needed to learn. When I was told that I would be working in the basement with the national collection, I thought it a privilege that I would be trusted with this task. I found this to be a much more work-filled week than I was expecting, and although it was busy, it was still relaxing. It was definitely an eye-opener, but nonetheless a great experience so far.

-Dyah Neilson

NAGB INTERN: Ashante Pratt

W E E K  O N E

Monday June 24th signifies the day I stepped into a whole new world of art that I have been blind to all my life. On this day, I took a step towards my future. On this day, I became an intern at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. At first I had no clue what exactly to expect during this eye-opening journey. Of course I knew art would be involved, but I also knew that there was more to it. As I come to the end of my first week here, I can confidently say that I am ecstatic to see what’s in store for the rest of my time here. On my first day I was very nervous and it showed in my clothes. I came dressed as if I were a lawyer, which is the attire my mother thinks apply for every job. After a while it sunk in and I was ready for a day of work. This feeling stuck with me throughout the entire week, however, the lawyer clothes didn’t. As the week progressed I went from reading and gathering information on master artist in the Bahamas, to actually meeting them!

This took place when we visited Antonius Roberts’ studio called Hillside House where I received a few tips about taking on the artistic path in college. That was an opportunity I never expected to happen. Some of the other cool things I did this week were making preparations for John Beadle’s workshop and editing labels for Master Artists Of The Bahamas. I was also challenged to break out of my shell and talk to principals of private schools for an education visit. Besides labour work I also learned a lot about the placement of artwork and their labels and all the other little details that make the artwork in the gallery almost jump out at you. The end of the week marks the beginning of a new one in which I get to continue this amazing experience.

-Ashante Pratt

NAGB Intern: Woodlen Saunders

My experience at The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas was tremendous, exciting and wonderful. I got to meet professional artists that I only dreamed of meeting. Artists like Kishan Munroe, Jackson Petit-Homme, Robin Hardy, John Cox and Ms. Wright.

My first day I was here I received a tour from Joshua Stubbs another intern here at the gallery. We were allowed to walk through the gallery at any spare time to view the artwork. I had to create and cut out mask for the children for the Gallery’s Easter Production for March. The following  day we visited the Hillside House and created key chains from mahogany wood with Mr. Robin Hardy. I also created a design for the Gallery’s garbage bin to promote recycling, which were painted the following day.

However , all of the fun came to an end and Friday. I wish it could have been longer, but all good things must come to an end. After I graduate , the National Art Gallery will be the first job I apply for and hopefully my last. This was an incredible and awesome experince!

Woodlen Saunders

NAGB Intern: Terrannise Taylor

My name is Terrannise Taylor and I am a twelfth grade student at C.C.Sweeting senior High School. For my job experience I was placed at the  National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. This past week I was blessed to work with , if you ask me , the best team ever. Which consist of Ms. Benjamin, Ms.Pratt, Ms. Wright , Ms Knowles and Mrs. Coulson ,the director here at the gallery. I was also able to tour the gallery and view the end products of hard work , dedication, and time, from the various artists around The Bahamas. Here at the gallery I got to meet and mingle with a few of our local artist such as Antonious Roberts, Jackson Petit- Homme and Robin Hardy. At the Hillside House Mr. Hardy demonstrated how to create a pendant entirely out of mahogany wood using a mini-Lithe machine. 

The experience was incredible! During my time here I also had a little history lesson with Ms. Benjamin. Comes to find out that the gallery was actually a house! And the present storage house was once a stable for horses. My fellow interns and I created a design for the gallery bins to promote recycling. I believe our designs were really cool but don’t just take my word visit the gallery and see it for yourself. Here at the gallery , each Easter a Family Fun Day is held, my colleagues and I created the designs for the Easter masks, and a lot of hard work went into those ( so those children better like them!)! My craving for organizing was also satisfied, as I had to sort out cards and other miscellaneous files, which believe it or not I enjoyed! I will never forget the laughs, jokes, conversations, and advice shared here between the gallery team and myself. I will be sure to return if only to , you know hail or crack a joke! And oh how could I forget the gallery pot cakes that watched my every move, and growled at me , let’s not forget that . I will forever have a fear of dogs thanks to them J this was a memorable experience and from a scale of 1 to 10, I’ll give an 11!

Terrannise Taylor

NAGB Intern: Joshua Stubbs

My overall experience at the art gallery has been a great time I learn about the gallery and its history. I interacted with new people and learn about Bahamain artist and what are their inspiration. My colleagues and I painted a garbage bin that will be used for recycling so I left a part or me here. So a part of my art will always be here. I wish I could stay here forever. This has been one of my greatest time working.

It's so sad that next week a have to go back school it feel like a real job. Now since I’ve appreciate this week and what I learn I will never leave my mind. Thank you to Ms Benjamin, Ms Wright, Ms Pratt, Ms Coulson, Ms Knowles, for their time an their crazy jokes and time spent together. We visit the Hillside House and got a tour and meet Antonius Roberts, John Beadle, Robin Hardly. On the last day Mr Jackson Petit-Homme  take pictures of us a are garbage bin. We also finished cut out the Easter egg cut outs for the future hunt. I can’t forget Mr John Cox and Mr Smith and the librarian for helping get information . My over all experience you can see has been GREAT!

Joshua Stubbs

NAGB Intern: Antonio McIntosh

During my days at The National Art Gallery I’ve learnt that there are many fun things that you can do such as creating ideas for the wondrous events that are held here. I have also learnt the name of the artists and what type of work that they do like wood-carvings, wood printing, portraits and the art that is made from various objects that are found. 

The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, in my opinion, is a terrific and fun place to be, you can look at the various drawings and paintings that are hung up by the various artists that did it. The part what I like the most is that you get to be an intern in training who can give tours to guests who visit, receive one hour lunch breaks and relax when you’re work is completed. 

This would have not been possible without Ms. Benjamin, Ashley, Ms. Wright, Ms. Pratt and lets not forget the boss lady Mrs. Coulson. I thank them all for their help and what they have done.

Antonio McIntosh

                                                                        

All-star Amateur Artist (AAA) Artwork: NE6 Edition

The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas would like to present All-star Amateur Artist (AAA) Artwork: NE6 Edition.

Application Deadline: Sunday, March 31st, 5PM
Exhibition Opening: Sunday, April 7, 2PM to 4PM

Download Info: Here

Download Application: Here

Amos Ferguson Colouring Book On Sale

NAGB Education Department is pleased to announce the sale of an Amos Ferguson Coloring Book in the NAGB's Mixed Media store.

The book is on sale for $10 and features over 20 pages of illustrations, fun Amos Ferguson facts and tidbits on Bahamian Art! Not only is it fun, but it's educational!

For further information or if you are interested in reserving a copy, please call 328-5800/1.

NAGB Intern: Neil Cleare

NAGB Intern, Neil Cleare with his favourite piece in The Bahamian Landscape

I’m Neil Cleare, a young and upcoming artist. I have lived in an artful environment all my life. Being guided by my father, and inspired by many other artists, I decided to place my focus in the area of art. When I was a young boy, I began drawing comics and cartoons, and I still do to this day. I’ve had many accomplishments with art, such as subject prizes, obtaining an A on the art BJC, and also doing my part in the mural paintings at the humane society. When I finish school, I would hope a career in either art, or athletics. To get an exposure to the career that art offers, I applied for the Summer Work Study Program at The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas.

Unfortunately, I only had one week at NAGB that went by all too fast. In that time thou, I paid attention to the different areas of work where art can take you. During my as an intern for the gallery, I got a taste of what its like to run the social network of an organization. I even spent which seemed a lifetime making descriptions for vintage post cards. Overall my time here was well spent, worthwhile and effective. My now favorite piece of work in the Gallery was by Bahamian artist Kishan Monroe. I liked his painting of his self portrait, mainly because his painting style is similar to mine, and his detail with oil paints is something I admire. Hopefully my road leads me onward through the world of art, and I look forward to being present here next year.

The All-Star Amateur Artists Night Amos Edition: Flyer, Rules and Application Form

All-Star Amateur Artist is back a second time around and this time the NAGB would like for artists to try their hand at Amos.

To view past AAA Nights click Here.
Official AAA Night Webpage
FaceBook Event: AAA Submission Deadlines
FaceBook Event: AAA Exhibition Opening

Important Dates:
Deadline for Submissions is at 4:00PM, Friday, October 12, 2012
The All-Star Amateur Artist Night takes place Friday, October 26, 6:30 to 8:30 PM

Call For Artworks:
Download Call For Artworks: Here.

AAA Invitation:
Download official AAA invitation: Here.

Rules of Entry:
Download Rules of Entry: Here.

AAA Application:

Download AAA Application: Here.

NAGB Intern: Alexis Murray

NAGB Intern, Alexis Murray

Hello everybody, my name is Alexis Murray. I am 17 years of age and I am currently attending Aquinas College as a 12th grader. I like to have fun, I love to laugh, hang out with family and friends, surf the web and I also like doing craft work with my little sister, Allycia.

I want to become a Pediatric nurse when I am older. As a child whenever my mother got sick I would cater to her, like a nurse would for their patient. Becoming a nurse is my desire, my dream. If nursing doesn’t work out for me, my back up plan is to become an Interior Designer and the NAGB helps everyone to have an idea of art. For example Lillian Blades’ piece, Omotayo, it is a very interesting piece of art. She mixes colors and styles in that one piece of art and if she can do it I can do it also.

My friend Yasmin Ford begged me to come to the NAGB's fair that was held on July 28, for more hours for my community service. To tell you the truth I really didn’t want to come here, but I came to support the Gallery and because it was my first time coming here. I had an awesome time working on the drinks and serving snow cones. I wanted to come back and finish my community service after Saturday and I did.

Working with Ms. Benjamin and the others was a greet experience for me. The workers here are really nice and love to have fun, but when it comes to work they get right down to it to get it done. I admire that because it taught me that you could have fun, but know when enough is enough.

I also learned about some of the artist here like Amos Ferguson. I had no clue who he was or that he even existed until I came here at the gallery. I got to view a lot of his work and the other artists, like Lillian Blades. She is my favorite artist. I love The National Art Gallery and I do plan on coming back. I want to thank everybody who I worked with for having me here. You guys do an awesome job with The Gallery. My advice is to keep up the good work. ☺

Our lovely NAGB Interns, we'll miss them!

NAGB Intern: Jeron Pratt

NAGB Intern, Jeron Pratt

My name is Jeron Pratt. I attend St. Annes High School and I am in the twelfth grade. I had the great pleasure of volunteering and working alongside the NAGB team for my community service. My best friend, who had recently been volunteering, knew I studied art in school and thought it would be good if I had sought out to work at the NAGB. She gave me a call and I am so grateful that she did.

I found this opportunity very beneficial because now I am more open-minded about the art world and its many mysteries. To me, I would compare art to a tree with a variety of branches that makes it complex and interesting. During this experience, the NAGB has helped me to see the value of work while seeing the intense activities that goes on.

The gallery of paintings dedicated to Amos Ferguson, “Bahamian Outsider,” was a blast to view. I can truly say that he is my favorite artist. His artwork seems to bring out a multitude of different lives in the Bahamian world and our culture. It was attractive. It was also pleasing to actually capture what his intentions were for his paintings.

Seeing the immense artwork and collections in the gallery really gave me a new outlook on the arts. Now I feel as if art can be a part of my career for the future. This experience provided a good foundation for me to build on. My friend and I are coming out of this community service experience with positive vibes and many smiles. Thank you NAGB!

NAGB Intern, Jeron (in the purple) helps to set up the Beverages booth during the Membership Drive Fair.