The Bermuda Arts Council celebrated five people who made major contributions to Bermudian art.Painter Sheilagh Head and the late Ronald Lightbourne, a poet, playwright and musician, were honoured yesterday with Lifetime Achievement awards for their work.Suzette Harvey and Lloyd Matthew was presented with Founders Awards for their contributions.Ms Harvey made her name as a choreographer, dancer and dance instructor and Mr Matthew was recognised for his work in choir music.John Campbell will also be recognised for his patronage of the arts and Lucinda Spurling received the new Earl Cameron Award.Jennifer Phillips, the BAC chairwoman, said: “The Bermuda Arts Council is committed to developing and improving the knowledge, understanding and practice of the arts in Bermuda. “An important element of this objective is to publicly acknowledge the work of our local artists. “Through the arts council’s annual awards ceremony, not only are we conveying to members of our arts community that they are valued, but also we aim to underscore that value by bringing the public’s awareness to their artistic contributions.”The arts council’s awards were presented at the Earl Cameron Theatre at City Hall in Hamilton last night. Lovitta Foggo, the Minister of Labour, Community Affairs and Sport, opened the awards ceremony and said the recipients had “inspired so many of us with their artistic creativity and passion”.She explained: “We believe that recognising the arts in all its forms and celebrating those individuals who share their unique vision with us is a noble and necessary pursuit. “The world we live in can be chaotic at times, but I am one who believes that the arts in all its forms serve as helpful, alternative avenues to enlighten, uplift and entertain us, by providing us with hope and inspiration.“Our ministry is truly delighted to support the work of the Arts Council and their aim of singling out deserving Bermudians who have given us so many years of enjoyment.”Ms Foggo added: “This is an important moment on Bermuda’s cultural and artistic calendar because tonight we come to celebrate and pay homage to these ‘artistic giants’ of our country.“Each of our distinguished recipients have in one way or another shaped our community with their creative talents, commitment and passion, and we are grateful for their selfless contributions to Bermuda. “On behalf of the Government, we are honoured to celebrate you all.”Update: This story has been updated to include the recipient of the Earl Cameron Award and remarks from Lovitta Foggo.