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Short History of the Bermuda Society of Arts The Bermuda Society of Arts is the oldest arts organisation on the Island. Originally known as the Society of Artists in Bermuda, it was formed in the early 1950's by 25 enthusiasts. Although only a few of the founder-members were artists, their work was of such a high standard that in time some of it became part of the collections of the Bermuda National Gallery, the Masterworks Foundation, the Premier's official residence, and even the Society itself. Then, as now, the Society's mission has always been to further the cause of art and artists in Bermuda. Among the goals enshrined in its Constitution are the stimulation and encouragement of artists to reach their highest potential; assisting them in the sale of their work; generally fostering interest and appreciation in art both locally and abroad; cultivating relationships with visiting artists, and acquiring works of art for its permanent contemporary collection. In 1956, an Act of Parliament set a formal seal on the restructured organisation's existence, its Constitution and new name: The Bermuda Society of Arts. Mission Statement and Aims 1. The Mission of the Bermuda Society of Arts is to become the primary resource to contemporary visual art in Bermuda. 2. The Aims of the Bermuda Society of Arts are to : • Support the privilege of expression in a democratic society • Maintain the primary gallery of visual art in Bermuda • Nurture the growth of visual art and artists in Bermuda • Foster and improve the standard of presentation • Prepare local artists for international exposure • Liase with other art organizations locally and abroad with the intention of building working relationships . Thanks to the vision of the late Sir Gilbert Cooper, CBE, ED, a former Mayor of Hamilton, the Society found a permanent home in City Hall in 1961. From modest beginnings, the Society has grown in strength and influence. The original membership of 25 has grown to over 400 in 2002, almost half of whom are artists. The Society is directed by an eleven-strong governing body, while a full-time Director oversees the administration and day to day running of its galleries. Regular fixtures on the calendar of events for member-artists include one unjuried and four juried shows per year, as well as an annual photographic show for professionals and amateurs. In addition, the Society hosts an extensive exhibition of art and sculpture by Bermuda's school children each Spring, as well as the Bermuda Government's Heritage Exhibition throughout the month of May. At other times during the year, individual artists and groups of artists rent gallery space to display and sell their works. From time to time, the Society joins with other art organisations to host special exhibitions and events. The Society's jurying programme includes a mixture of resident jurors, who offer free critiques to participating artists and interested members. On March 9, 1994, following the re-designing of the overall gallery space to create two galleries, the Duke of Edinburgh officially opened the smaller gallery which bears his name. Ideal for one-person or small group shows, it is also home to rotating exhibitions by artist-members. Boxed cards, featuring paintings by various member artists, are sold in the gallery. The overall ambiance of the gallery, and its central location with nearby parking, makes it an ideal setting for teas, cocktail parties, receptions and dinners. The Director's office is located within the gallery. Onion's and Edinburgh gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday, while office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. Gallery and offices are closed for public holidays. Admission is free. For further information telephone 292-3824 or fax 296-0699. |
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