Although the member's Spring Open at the Bermuda Arts Centre is mixed in quality and skill, there is enough in the exhibition that is excellent to warrant a trip all the way to Dockyard.

Take for example, the five paintings by Christopher Marson. Although all are notable, two stand out as exceptional. One of those is 'Channel Markers'. It is one of his new acrylic pieces, but this piece in particular is full of the poetic.

Furthermore, the framing is so suitable, as to be an essential part of the painting. I especially responded to the three squiggly lines in the middle to left of centre, more or less, that, I suppose are the channel markers. This is a thoughtful, spontaneous composition. It is Chris Marson at his best.

Perhaps even better, or at least as noteworthy for its unusual subject matter is 'Almost Home'. This shows an old ferry at dusk, wending its way through the islands, as it returns to port. What is particularly magical about it, is its lighting.

The ferry is lit up, as night is approaching and thus creates an essential pivot upon which the composition turns. It is also refreshing that Chris Marson is considering such subjects as night scenes.

Keep an eye out for the work of Marlene Janzen. Her watercolours are beginning to rival those of Chris Marson. Her 'Verdmont Shadows I & II' are ones to see in this show.

Another unusual and engaging work is a triptych by Molly Godet. The subject is a depiction of three different types of leaves, that work as a harmonious composition because each painting is of similar colour. There is more to it than that, however. Another essential aspect of this work, is the boldness of execution. It comes across as strong. Furthermore, the total presentation, frames and all are absolutely perfect.

There are also several works by Ami Zanders, that caught my attention. Especially significant are her wool baskets. The skill of execution and the choice of colours, as well as materials, makes these more than a mere craft pieces. They are truly works of art.

Considering the crafts: The three pieces of ceramic by Jon Faulkner are exceptional. The three vessels exhibited are salt glazed and fired with waste or used cooking oil, that has been filtered and cleansed of impurities. The fact that Faulkner is recycling used cooking oil in firing his kilns is an innovative way to fuel a kiln. The pieces themselves tend to blueness, but within the characteristics of salt glaze.

Regarding ceramics: Suzie Lowe is exhibiting two wall plaques that are an extension of her earlier way of working, but in this case they are more colourful, with titles that resonate with the paintings themselves. The titles are 'Aviva' and 'Primavera'.

Angela Gentleman's one painting in this show is evocative of her Mexican experience.

It is an abstract that is reminiscent of the old, weathered walls. The warm colours that dominate the composition recall that colourful land with its equally vibrant culture.

New to me is the work of Lydia Franks, but her "File Fishing at Devonshire Bay", is a watercolour that manages to express something of the action involved in that sport.

Her "Yellow Damsel Fish" is also notable. It is good, once again to see new artist exhibiting. It may well be that she is a long-term artist. I do not believe we have met and I know nothing of her experience, still, I hope that we will be seeing more of her work of her work in the near future.

The banana doll on show in this exhibit is by Dierdre Furtado, but if you are looking for a traditional Bermuda banana doll, you will not find it here. The one on exhibit, resembles more a whirling dervish. It is certainly an expression of implied motion.

The exhibition continues through May 29.