The Bermuda National Gallery (BNG) needs residents to donate $100,000 to help maintain the care of its art collection.

Director Lisa Howie told members of Hamilton Rotary yesterday: "Our annual appeal is underway and now more than ever, we are in need of Bermuda's support.

"Our target is $100,000. In order to maintain climate and humidity control for the care of the art collection to international museum standard, the annual electricity costs are over $85,000."

Ms Howie also appealed for help in making the BNG more accessible to those with disabilities.

"We are without proper disability access such as automated doors [and] wheelchair risers, and we have yet to accommodate the blind or deaf and these are areas with which we need assistance."

Ms Howie also took the opportunity to dispel what she said were "myths" about the BNG.

She said because the gallery has the word national in its name, many assume that it is Government-funded.

"The truth is that Government sponsors the BNG, in this fiscal year, seven percent of the annual budget," said Ms Howie.

"We are grateful for this however the result of such limited support puts greater pressure on corporate citizens and the larger community."

The gallery relies heavily on membership dues and donations, she said. And sponsorship allows the BNG to open its doors free of charge.

Ms Howie continued: "The Bermuda National Gallery needs your support. If you are not a member, please join. If you would like to support our annual appeal, please do so. If you haven't seen the current exhibition '4 Centuries: Evolving Arts', please do so by December 23rd."

• The BNG is located in the City Hall on Church Street. To find out more about donating telephone 295-9428 or visit www.bng.bm.