The Tribune

UNDER the theme "All Things Bahamian," junior and senior high students from government and private schools got the chance to showcase their talents in the areas of art and design. Hosted by the art and design unit of the Department of Education, the 14th visual arts exhibition awards ceremony took place at the Mall at Marathon earlier this month. Among the items on display were paintings, sketches, jewellery, handbags, decorative mirrors and souvenirs made from various indigenous items such as jumbey pods, thatch and coconut straw, sand and shells. Patrons and mall shoppers were entertained by Woodline Joseph, of T A Thompson Junior High School, the R M Bailey High School band, the Government High School Dance Troupe and Alex Ulys, of Abaco Central High School. According to members of the Art and Design Unit, a performer from the Abaco Central High School caused quite a stir with his mouth-to-hands blowing medley rendition of "My Heart Will Go On" and "I Will Always Love You". Welcoming attendees at the ceremony was Managing Director RBC Finco Tanya McCartney who expressed her delight at viewing the inspiring, exceptional artwork produced by the students. Ms McCartney pointed out the benefits of art education, which include its ability to enhance other subjects, promote individuality, bolster self confidence and foster better attitudes towards school. She also thanked administrators, teachers and parents for supporting the students in their endeavours. Sharing his passion for art and design, vice principal at the S C McPherson Junior High School Cornelius Clyde encouraged the students to use their talent to the fullest potential. Mr Clyde challenged the students to embrace the artistic spirit within and produce their own style and designs and admonished them to constantly practice and perfect their work in the various mediums because the market for Bahamian artwork is open now more than ever. He advised the students to become knowledgeable of ways to market their artwork locally and internationally as a means to become gainfully employed upon leaving school. Education officer for art and design Pamela Chandler noted that the Department of Education will recognise the improved level of schools which have demonstrated a better understanding of the requirements for the national examinations. In each category of the competition, the winning schools were awarded with trophies and cheques. Abaco Central High School became the winner of the Family Island Division. The Harbor Island All Age School won second place and the Mangrove Cay High School won third . T A Thompson Junior High School emerged as the winners in the Junior High Division, with C H Reeves Junior High School winning second and Queen's College winning third. In the Senior High Division, the Government High School won first , while Doris Johnson Senior High School won second and C C Sweeting Senior High School won third.