The Tribune

A NEW forum, designed to show the importance of the creative arts as a means of economic production, was launched by concept proponents Bahamian Soul. The forum held every Tuesdays features industry leaders such as Freddie Munnings Jr, community activist and musician, Dr Ian Strachan, senior College of Bahamas lecture and playwright, Chris Justilien, College of Bahamas lecture and junkanoo group leader, Andret John, visual artist and Fred Ferguson entrepreneur and musician. The leaders in various fields of the creative arts will engage a conversation on: What is the Bahamian Creative Economy? Along with the Bahamian Soul conversation on Tuesday nights, the group also hosts the Bahamian Soul Showcase every Thursday at 7pm. Both events are held at the Garden of Eden, Eastwood. Whether established, emerging, culturally-specific, or experimental, the group embraces all artists who wish to share in all forms including dance, comedy, poetry, music and more. Bahamian Soul is a creative movement which nurtures creativity, cultivates expression, promotes the arts, supports the arts in education, stimulates community, national policy and economic development and serves as a resource for cultural and heritage advancement, according to the founders. The movement deliberately links creativity, community and commerce. Bahamian Soul seeks to define, demonstrate, embrace and build the creative economy in the Bahamas. In the future, Bahamian Soul hopes to establish an environment that nurtures culture, and fosters the cultural economy. The group also hopes to combine cuisine, music, art, dance and comedy to create a financially sustainable and culturally viable Bahamian hub.