BNT hosts open house at Verdmont Museum
Residents have been invited to view live artist demonstrations while taking part in guided tours and family activities at a free open house at Verdmont Museum on Saturday.
The Bermuda National Trust said attendees at the event, which will run from 11am to 3pm, will also explore the stories of those whose skills and labour shaped the property and its collection, including enslaved Bermudians whose contributions “have often gone unrecognised”.
The guided tours will run from 11am to 1pm. The BNT said visitors can enjoy short presentations exploring historic portraiture, craftsmanship and the culinary and medicinal arts associated with the museum’s kitchen and gardens.
The event is being held as part of Art Month.
Visitors will be able to make artwork inspired by the Smith’s property and there will be an opportunity for children to submit their creations to the BNT Art Competition sponsored by Sompo. The deadline for submissions is October 31.
Visitors are also welcome to explore Verdmont's period rooms, collections and gardens.
The programme features Bermudian artists Nashon Hollis and Shanna Hollis, alongside Bermuda-based artist Christina Wilson.
Mr Hollis will demonstrate portraiture and painting, Ms Hollis will lead participatory art-making while Ms Wilson will demonstrate the craft of paper flower-making — each drawing inspiration from Verdmont.
Charlotte Andrews, the BNT's head of cultural heritage, said: “Verdmont offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the connections between art, craftsmanship and history.
“We want visitors to appreciate the significance of the house, detached kitchen and collections, but also to connect with the people whose skills and labour shaped this place and the objects we share with visitors today.
“By bringing contemporary artists into Verdmont, we hope to offer new perspectives on its history and inspire everyone attending to engage creatively with our heritage.”
Dr Andrews urged visitors to “stop in for a little or stay all day”, adding that the BNT welcomes everyone to the event.
The BNT thanked the Bermuda Tourism Authority for its financial and marketing support of the event.
• For more information, visit www.bnt.bm
