The Tribune

A SERIES of stamps have been launched to mark the Bahamas World Day of Prayer, annually held on the first Friday in March.

The stamps show the inspiration and creativity of talented Bahamian artists in celebration of the spirit of the global call to prayer and are called “Never Forget How to Serve,” “Blessed,” and “The Master Key.”

The 15 cent “Never Forget How to Serve” is a biblically symbolic reminder of how one should always keep the act of servitude and shows artwork by Jessica Colebrooke made of Terracotta clay and painted with oxides and stains.

The 50 cent “Blessed” is by mixed media artist Chantal Bethel and draws upon the landscapes and folklore of her heritage and home. In 2001, she was honoured by the Miami Children’s Hospital for her support of children’s issues through art, and in 2008 the Bureau of Women’s Affairs recognised her outstanding work and contribution in the realm of Fine Arts. In 2010, she received the Award of Excellence from the Embassy of Haiti in Washington, DC, for her work, Requiem for Haiti.

Bethel’s work has appeared in solo and group exhibitions throughout the Bahamas as well as the United States and Canada. Her work is in the collection of the Waterloo Centre for the Arts Museum, Iowa, The Benetton Foundation in Italy, The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, the D’Aguilar Art Foundation and the Dawn Davies collection.

“It is a privilege for me to celebrate the diverse cultures which have profoundly affected my life: that of Haiti where I was born, Belgium where I was schooled and the Bahamas, my beloved home since 1971,” the artist said.

Working in bronze - a material that portrays strength and longevity - “The Master Key” by Tyrone Ferguson is a sculpture depicted on the 65c stamp. The Master Key has 12 bronze rings around it symbolising the twelve disciples.