The Tribune

AN ELITE group of talented Bahamian artists will exhibit their works at Abaco Beach Resort during the Art for the Parks Festival, January 25-27, 2013.

This annual event, a collaboration between Abaco Beach Resort, the Bahamas National Trust and corporate sponsors, brings together more than 30 of the country’s most recognised artists and craftsman.

The festival offers both residents and visitors a unique opportunity to view and purchase artwork while raising awareness and funding for the preservation of Abaco’s six national parks.

“Art for the Parks has become a wonderful tradition at Abaco Beach Resort and we are thrilled to, once again, serve as host to the many incredible artists based here in the Bahamas,”said the resort’s owner.

“The preservation of our six national parks is an issue of great importance to both residents who have cherished them for years and visitors experiencing their beauty for the first time. We look forward to a wonderful event and are happy to play our part in support of the local art community and the preservation of our natural environment.”

Guests will enjoy viewing and purchasing works in all mediums including oils and acrylics, vibrant watercolours, handcrafted wood products, dazzling jewellery and incredible fabric art.

Art for the Parks commences with a cocktail reception and silent auction and continues through the weekend with musical entertainment, local cuisine, an interactive children’s art activity, a Fresh Market with local farmers and makers of jams, jellies and pepper sauces; as well as fresh bread by Lovely Reckly, a Chalk Art Competition sponsored by the Rotary Club of Abaco, live art demonstrations by select artists and Caricatures by Jo-ann Bradley, as well as a Heritage Lecture Series.

“We were amazed at the response to our Heritage Lecture Series last year,” said Kadie Mills, office manager for the BNT Abaco Office. “We are very excited to have another exciting group of lectures this year.”

Featured speakers at the Saturday lecture series will be Michael Pateman, speaking on the recent underwater archeological research done on the slave ship discovered off of Abaco; birdwatching in Abaco by Elwood Bracey; Annie Potts speaking on the lighthouses of the Bahamas and Brian Kakuk presenting on the conservation of blue holes and caves in the Bahamas.