The Caribbean Canvas- A look at local island Artists

By Edward Smith

The Caribbean is a crossroads of the Americas and has given the gift of music such as Reggae, Calypso and Meringue to name just a few. Also, cuisine such as Jerk Chicken and Creole cooking as well as food sources such as pineapple and the yam and many herbs and Spices come from the Caribbean. I like to take time to visit with local artists and give people outside the Caribbean the opportunity to know about them and possibly collect their unique art work!

I was struck by the artwork I saw exhibited in the rooms at the Luxurious Old Bahama Bay Inn on Freeport. On a tour with the Ministry of Tourism, I asked to interview a local artist- it turned out to be Leo Brown the very artist I saw in the resort! He paints at his own studio at Leo’s Art Gallery at the Port Lucaya Marketplace. His paintings are colorful, thoughtful, and spiritual with themes capturing local Bahamian life, nature, landscapes, celebrations and the wonder and mystery of creation. His paintings are exceptional and affordable. I started my collection by purchasing a limited and signed print for only $60.00. Check Leo out at www.bahamasvg.com/leobrown

At Marsh Harbour on Great Abaco Island I was able to personally meet another local success story. Kimberly was born in the Bahamas and was an art school teacher. She is proficient in many mediums but has struck magic with Quilted Artwork- displayed in galleries all over the islands and purchased by leading designers and decorators world-wide. You can contact her at Bahama Dawn Designs at Kimberkitty12@hotmail.com and soon at www.bahamadawn.com.



Read last Month's Article - Caribbean Sailing- Pirate Style in the US Virgin Islands!