The Bermuda Arts Council (BAC), the Government’s official arts funding body, operating under the Department of Culture, is pleased to announce the recipients of its latest round of arts funding, recognising Bermudian artists and organisations for their creativity, cultural contribution, and artistic excellence. 

Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, said, “The Bermuda Arts Council continues to play a vital role in nurturing the island’s vibrant creative community. These grants not only support individual artists and organisations, but also strengthen the cultural fabric of Bermuda. We are proud to champion the work of Bermudians who are telling our stories, preserving our heritage, and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.”

This cycle includes grants across multiple categories supporting Bermuda’s creative ecosystem. Jahbarri Ahmad Wilson received the Project Grant for “Meet Me in the Onion Patch”, a mixed-media examination of Bermuda’s postcolonial history. The Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art was awarded the Organisation Grant for its ongoing exhibitions and community programming. Art Drop Bermuda, led by Michaela Antoinette, received the Professional Development Grant to expand its pop-up exhibitions and artist platforms. Liana Nanang Omodele received the Materials and Equipment Grant to support her sculptural, printmaking, and mixed-media work. Emerging singer, songwriter, and educator Shardaé Lee received the Cliff Jumper Award for artists aged 16 to 25.

Education and Experience Grants were awarded to three artists pursuing international opportunities. Aden Peets attended a specialised violin repair course at Academia Cremonensis in Italy to expand his restoration skills. Jasmine Lee travelled to Nassau, Bahamas for the FUZE Art Fair, strengthening her engagement with Caribbean contemporary art. Yasmin Eve-Townsend attended the BFI London Film Festival, connecting with global professionals and gaining insight to support her filmmaking and sound design practice.

The Council celebrates the diversity and calibre of this year’s recipients, noting the strength and commitment within Bermuda’s arts community. The Bermuda Arts Council remains dedicated to providing meaningful financial and developmental support so artists can grow, collaborate, and share Bermuda’s stories locally and abroad. Artists and organisations are encouraged to apply for upcoming grant cycles, with details available at www.artscouncil.bm.