Mauritian-born L.J. Kersley Nanette opens an exhibition of model boats in the Rose Gallery at Masterworks in the Botanical Gardens this evening. The collection of 17th and 18th century vessels is entitled 'The Bounty: Handcrafted Scale Model Ships'.

The artist undertook an apprenticeship in Mauritius at age 12, and since 1979 has developed a passion for making model ships in teak and cedar in various sizes, ranging from five inches to six feet.

His latest pride and joy was making five-foot models of 'The Sea Venture' and 'The Deliverance' in Bermuda cedar.

The latter of which was depicted on the Bermuda to Jamestown postage stamp marking the 400th anniversary of Jamestown.

The artist describes model ship making as a rare art to which he has devoted countless hours over many years to perfect.

The owner of 'The Bounty' shop in St. George's, Mr. Nanette says it requires lots of knowledge, ability, determination, patience and love to become a model maker, and is really a labour of love.

* The opening reception is from 5.30 to 7 p.m. and will be held in conjunction with 'Live in the Gardens'. The exhibition continues through August 23. For gallery hours see the Bermuda Calendar.

Architecture and Interior Design celebrated at BSoA

Today marks the opening of 'Design Bermuda 2007' in the Onions gallery of the Bermuda Society of Arts, the aim of which is to highlight ideas and innovations of architecture and interior design; promote the art and science of both fields, and Bermuda's professional talents in these spheres. Participating exhibitors will showcase their architectural and design work, ranging from concepts to completed projects between 2000 and today; recognise the firms involved, including consultants and contractors promoting excellence in design and construction; and also raise public awareness of the profession.

Molière farce coming to BMDS

When the lights go up at Daylesford Theatre on August 30, it will be to reveal a modern adaptation of one of seventeenth century French playwright and actor Molière's most popular comedies, 'Les Femmes Savantes' (1672) , now retitled 'The Sisterhood'.

The lighthearted farce about cultural elitism and the triumph of true love over snobbery will be directed for the Bermuda Musical & Dramatic Society by Suzann McLean, who trained at the Italia Conti Academy in London, England, and has enjoyed a successful acting career for the past 13 years.

Ms McLean received critical acclaim for her lead role of Isabella in Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure' at the Royal National Theatre, and has worked internationally for Vienna's English Theatre and Hronov Theatre in the Czech Republic, among many other accomplishments.

In addition to acting, Ms McLean works as a freelance director, from community theatre projects to the West End stage. Her creative vision stems from a passion to find the truth in human emotions.

She not only has family connections here, but also conducted a BMDS workshop delving into Meisner and Stanislavski techniques on a previous visit.

Molière (1622-1673) is considered one of the greatest masters of comedy in Western literature, and the title of this adapted farce refers to the mother, sister and aunt of Henriette, a young girl in love with Clitandre. In order to marry, the lovers must overcome the obstacles of 'The Sisterhood', who have their own ideas about the right suitor.

The production will be set in a chic 1980s salon, where the characters flaunt the quirks of cultural snobbery and invite ridicule.

Whether or not Henriette gets her man will be answered as the farce unfolds.

Performances will run from August 30 to September 8, with an 8 p.m. curtain each night. Tickets ($25) will be sold at Daylesford Theatre box office on August 23, 24, 27, 28 and 29 from 5.30 p.m. to 7 p.m., as well as one hour before curtain time on performance nights. For online bookings, see website www.bmds.bm.