The Tribune

ABACO – This month, some of the most celebrated Bahamian artists will gather at Abaco Beach Resort and Boat Harbour Marina to share the beauty of their work while protecting the beauty of the Bahamas.

Now in its fifth year, the Art for the Parks Festival will take place January 24–26, in collaboration between Abaco Beach Resort, the Bahamas National Trust (BNT) and corporate sponsors.

More than 30 artists and artisans will exhibit, providing 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 and wildlife sanctuaries.

“We look forward to once again hosting this wonderful event and are proud to play a part in the preservation of our natural environment,” said Manny Alexiou, owner of Abaco Beach Resort.

“What makes Art for the Parks so unique is that it not only showcases the natural wonders of the Bahamas through the work of our talented art community, but it also reminds us of the importance of protecting these areas so that future generations can enjoy them.”

Event attendees 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 arts and crafts tent, chalk art competition, live art demonstrations by select artists as well as a Heritage Tent with live demonstrations and history workshops about the region.

“The Art for the Parks event was the idea of local Abaco artists who wanted a show that would allow them to promote and display their art while supporting the national parks on Abaco,” said Lynn Gape, BNT deputy executive director. “It has been a great partnership with the artists participating in the planning of the event, as well as the amazing support we have received from the Abaco Beach Resort and local corporate partners.”

All ticket proceeds will benefit the preservation of Abaco’s six national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The national park system in Abaco includes Walker’s Cay National Park, Black Sound Cay National Reserve, Tilloo Cay Reserve, Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park, Abaco National Park and Fowl Cays National Park.

“The youth of Abaco are also a part of the event,” stated David Knowles, BNT director of parks. “This year, students have been invited to participate in the ‘Take me Outside’ Video competition where students are asked through a short film to highlight what they enjoy the most about the outdoor environment of Abaco.”

The BNT will announce the winners of the competition at the Art for the Parks event.

Art for the Parks in Abaco opens on Friday, January 24 from noon-3pm with the gala opening at 6-9pm; Saturday, January 25 from 10am-6pm and Sunday, January 26 from 11am-3pm.

Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children under 12 years of age. For more information about the event contact Kadie Mills at the BNT office in Marsh Harbour 367-6310.