A brand new show featuring paintings by two visiting Canadian artists, Donna-Lee Bolden and Nicole Pe?a and entitled `Island Tourt' will open this Friday at Kafu gallery

Miss Bolden uses acrylic paint, chalk pastel and compressed charcoal to deliver her visions to the world. Spotted as a gifted artist in childhood, under the tutelage of Maxine Schacker she discovered her passion for the human form, and specifically the mannerist styles of Modigliano, the dramatic gestural sculptures of Bernini, as well as her teacher's figurative drawings.

Her well-rounded arts education includes gaining a fine arts degree from the Ontario College of Art, and a specialised honours degree in fine art from the University of Guelph, Ontario.

Miss Bolden's works are inspired by the cycle of life, and many them appear to have been created by a native African who is very familiar with the landscape and people of that continent. In fact, the artist has never been to Africa. Many of her works depict strong women who are bold and sensual, and she often uses her own existence as a reflective template for her creations. Oprah Winfrey and Maya Angelou have both commissioned works from her.

Among her many charity-related activities, Miss Bolden is developing an interactive internet space where young artists can have all of their art-related questions answered; and an `Island Tour' of the Caribbean this month, of which Bermuda is the first stop. Its purpose is to build artist awareness and better international artists' networks. Her webside is