Freeport, Grand Bahama - In his opening remarks to the many art patrons and art enthusiasts in attendance, president of the Grand Bahama Artists Association, Sheldon Saint said it is not just that February is the month of LOVE that we have a Valentine Art Exhibition because the members of the GBAA have been exhibiting their love of art and making their presence felt in Freeport community since 1996.

Eva Dehmel acrylic on canvas. Photo by Del Foxton

He said that this year members were even showing more LOVE and he invited guests view the eclectic body of work from the twenty five artists on display and to meet the many artists in attendance, some who are the original founding member artists and some who are new and emerging artists exhibiting their work for the first time.

Angelika Siska, acrylic on canvas. Photo by Del Foxton

From wood carvings, oil, watercolours, and acrylics to wool and sequin tapestries and handmade wall hangings, guests had the opportunity to experience an extensive variety of subjects and mediums in the Glory Banks Art Gallery of the Bahamas National Trust’s Rand Nature Centre.

Del foxton handmade fibre Paper Collage. Photo by Del Foxton

Director of Public Relations for the GBAA, Del Foxton, noted that there is definitely a buzz in Freeport with a recent increase in the number of cultural events in the visual and performing arts. She says that they as an Association they see a growing awareness of the importance of art culture in our society by the number of invitations the Association receives to join in community and business events.

Jo Morasco Hand Woven Tapestries. Photo by Del Foxton

We believe she says, that it is a win-win situation as the community can experience art and the talent that is here on the island and the artists are motivated to continue on their creative path to meet the requests in the community. I t is our mission as an association not only assists the memberships’ development as artists but also to assist in establishing an appreciation of the arts on Grand Bahama Island.

Ishbel MacDonald Watercolours. Photo by Del Foxton

For interested art lovers who were not able to attend the opening reception the Valentine Art Exhibition continues in the Glory Banks Art Gallery until the end of February.

Leslie Duncombe Acrylic on Canvas. Photo by Del Foxton

For more information please contact Del Foxton, Public Relations Director, and Grand Bahama Artists Association 242 353 4333/727 4333.

Sheldon Saint Oil on Canvas. Photo by Del Foxton

Sheldon Saint Watercolour on Paper. Photo by Del Foxton

Portia Colebrooke Wood Carving. Photo by Del Foxton

Steve Stubbs Acrylic on Canvas. Photo by Del Foxton