Discover the Local Artist Community of Sandys Parish, Bermuda

Picturesque Sandys Parish is a popular region for visitors to stay on their holidays to Bermuda; it's also traditionally held a magnetic appeal for artists, inspired by the area's unique light and evocative landscape. While, over the past century, artists of great international renown have famously found their muse in this part of the world, the vibrant Bermuda Arts Centre, at Dockyard, provides a nurturing community for the diverse creative spirits of the region's local contemporary artists.

To experience a taste of some genuine local culture while on holidays to Bermuda, pencil in a visit to spend some time at this friendly local institution.

The Bermuda Arts Centre

Established in 1984, the Arts Centre is set within the historic Dockyard, in Sandys Parish. An unexpected splash of creative culture in the complex, the enthusiastic and prolific local artists who form the backbone of the community work hard to ensure the centre is a forum for all forms of creative expression.

Created by and for artists, the non-profit Arts Centre organisation promotes a culture of inclusion and experimentalism. Regular themed shows afford members the freedom to explore new media and subject matter, while expanding their skills and knowledge.

Resident Artists

These four resident artists work on site and are more than happy to chat with visitors and explain their process and techniques.

Chelsey Trott is a skilful sculptor, under whose hands emerge delicately carved pieces from the aromatic Bermuda cedar tree, concrete and bronze. Inspired by nature and the human form, Chelsey's beautiful abstract forms are an expression of his everyday experiences.

Christopher Marson won 'best in show' at the recent Plein Air Festival, for his emotive watercolour scenes of the local region. He's found commercial and creative success with his muted pastel seascapes and depictions of local cottages.

Christopher Grimes' striking oils of animals and local scenes show his love of colour and superb eye for composition. A traditional style of painter, his work is inspired by the ever-changing ocean and skies in his inspiring hometown.

Nahed Eid creates eclectic large form sculptures using mixed media. Inspired by the local marine life, Nahed's metal-spined fish and seahorses are full of humour and detail.

Enjoying the Art

From pastel watercolours of local seascapes, to colourful floral studies, atmospheric oil paintings, experimental textile wall hangings, pottery, jewellery and large and small scale sculptures, the scope of the local artists is as good as anywhere in the world.

Many of the paintings are available as prints on sale in the centre (as well as online), and they'll ship pieces anywhere in the world for anyone who's visiting on holidays to Bermuda. As well as prints, some artists (including Christopher Marson) have produced calendars for sale, featuring their best pieces.

Events at the Arts Centre

The centre holds regular events and exhibitions open to the public throughout the year.A selection from the 2016 programme includes:

• The Art of Craft (April): exhibition of ceramics, woodturning and jewellery• Serjeant's Cup (May): competition for marine art• 'Hidden Gems' exhibition (June)• Plein Air (September)• Small Works (November)

The centre also offers a number of workshops for which everyone is encouraged to get involved. They include:

• Mastering oils• Silver and fused Glass• Mosaics

Get Involved - Plein Air

The Plein Air Painters of Bermuda was created in order to encourage amateur and professional artists to experience the joy of working on location in this most beautiful region. Anyone can join the group, which paints at different locations every weekend, and it's a wonderful opportunity to learn new skills and grow as an artist. (Enquire for times and locations at the Arts Centre ph. 441 234-2809.)

A visit to the Arts Centre at Dockyard is a wonderful opportunity to see the inspirational muse of these islands at work in contemporary times.

John Dixon is Managing Director of Prestige Holidays and visits Bermuda at least twice a year. He has been providing luxury holidays to Bermuda as well as luxury holidays to many other destinations worldwide for over 30 years.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.