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Arts & Culture Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM


Bahamas GG Presents the 2014 Arts Festival Awards and Encourages Artists
By Betty Vedrine, BIS
Nov 7, 2014 - 12:25:29 PM

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NASSAU, The Bahamas -- Encouraging cultural self-expression has been one of the goals of the National Arts Festival since 1959.

"The National Arts Festival, which has been in existence since 1959, has done a very good job in highlighting the arts in schools throughout The Bahamas," said H.E. Dame Marguerite Pindling, Governor General.

On October 30, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture presented the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival Awards in the Government House Ballroom on Mount Fitzwilliam. Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Hon. Dr. Daniel Johnson introduced Her Excellency, Dame Marguerite Pindling to honorees and supporters.

"Young people are our primary source of inspiration. They are our pride, joy, and moreover, will become our future leaders and our hope for a better world to come," said Governor General, Dame Marguerite.

Dame Marguerite said students who learn one of the disciplines in the arts, whether craft, visual arts, drama, music or dance, usually are disciplined in other areas of their lives. She said usually they do well in school, on the job, in their churches and in the community.

"Art involvement and art appreciation are important ingredients in the education and development of the whole person. These two attributes help to instill individual self-esteem and self-worth," she said.

Dame Marguerite also acknowledged the contributions of older participants in the E. clement Bethel National Arts Festival, who are the civic minded parents and grandparents, also involved in the arts.

"Yes, even the not-so-young benefit from the categories, which the Festival offers. The arts can help to improve the quality of life of the individual and community and can also create careers and industry, and are important in the development of the creative economy," she said.

Dame Marguerite extended thanks to the Bahamas Government for remaining faithful in funding the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival and other such festivals of its kind with financial and moral support.

"I am confident that the budding young and professional artists are appreciative of the Government's efforts," said Dame Marguerite.

"I wish to extend a special commendation to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture and specifically the organizers for their hard work and commitment to ensure the success of the E. Clement Bethel National Arts Festival. However, most of all, I wish to pay tribute to you, the participants, for your dedication to your art.

Dame Marguerite encouraged the artists to continue to bless the nation with excellence.


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