In 1952, 25 enthusiasts, not all of them painters, formed what was then known as The Society of Artists. Little did they imagine that, 55 years later, what became The Bermuda Society of Arts (BSoA) by Act of Parliament in 1956, would be a thriving, vibrant registered charity whose mission continues to be furthering the cause of art and artists in Bermuda.

Among the goals enshrined in the BSoA constitution are the stimulation and encouragement of artists to reach their highest potential; to assist them in selling their work; generally fostering interest and appreciation in art, both locally and abroad; cultivating relationships with visiting artists; and acquiring works of art for its permanent collection.

To that end, the BSoA proudly serves the community as an exhibition venue, full service gallery, and resource centre for all levels of artists, from school children to professionals, hailing from all walks of life. Indeed, the term 'People's Gallery' perfectly sums up Bermuda's oldest art organisation.

"We strive to make the Society a stimulating and welcoming experience through our diverse exhibitions, programmes and events," executive director Victoria Evans-Cracknell says. "Our organisation is a dynamic doorway leading to new experiences."

Among the goals enshrined in the BSoA constitution are the stimulation and encouragement of artists to reach their highest potential; to assist them in selling their work; generally fostering interest and appreciation in art, both locally and abroad; cultivating relationships with visiting artists; and acquiring works of art for its permanent collection.

To say that Mrs. Evans-Cracknell is passionate about the Society with which she first became acquainted as a ten-year-old artist-member in 1965, is an understatement. In fact, she refers to it as "a grand old gal" and speaks affectionately of "she" when espousing its proud history, present and future plans.

"When I first came in to the gallery as the director, I honestly felt the presence of everyone who had sat in the chair before me, and what, collectively, they tried to do for the BSoA. Good or bad, they all contributed to its survival," she says.

Looking around the spacious gallery, with its polished pine floors, professional lighting, and huge windows overlooking City Hall car park, Mrs. Evans-Cracknell adds, "These are not just four walls. I can feel the vibrations of the emotions, passions and excitement of the Society's long history, and I want her to succeed. She's a grand old gal."

In 1961, the Corporation of Hamilton granted the Society a lifetime tenancy at the prime City Hall location, and in 1967 the original gallery was subdivided to create the smaller Edinburgh Gallery, which was officially opened by HRH the Duke of Edinburgh.

In 2001, the main gallery was renamed the 'Onions Gallery' in honour of the late Will Onions, architect of City Hall. Of course, Bermudians are also known 'Onions', so the choice was doubly appropriate.

More recently, the BSoA has created two more sub-divisions through flexible panels, allowing for the temporary creation of up to two small 'People's Galleries', otherwise known as Studio A and Studio B, for the express purpose of giving budding artists an area to show their work in cosier and less intimidating settings.

Of particular pride to Mrs. Evans-Cracknell is the egalitarianism of its large membership, which includes people of all ages, races, and from all walks of life, most but not all of whom are artists.

"We have doctors, lawyers, grandmothers who have never painted before, groundskeepers, single mothers with busy lives who have now picked up a paint brush, as well as professional artists, and even renowned artists. It is really quite unique," she says.

In addition, the BSoA has recently appointed two 'Ambassadors' – Peter Matcham and Sharon Wilson – whose job it is to promote the mission of the Society wherever they go in their daily lives.

"The word 'ambassador' has been selected by the board instead of 'honorary co-chair' to better reflect what we asked and they have kindly agreed to do," Mrs. Evans-Cracknell says. "The Society's mission is to bring in new artists, attract people to us as a resource centre, and in the corporate world to help secure sponsorship. The beauty of the arrangement is that these ambassadors also represent Bermuda, and we are delighted that they have agreed to be part of our mission."

The BSoA has what the executive director describes as "a very spirited annual programme" of exhibitions, activities and more.

"We have had an amazing record of growth, activity, value, fun, art, and enough parties to test the stamina of the most tenacious," she says. "In fact, the Society has made a sustained contribution to all aspects of art in Bermuda."

Indeed, new exhibitions open, on average, every 21 days, and there are five to seven members' shows a year, two of which and friends to the galleries who otherwise might not visit.

The same goes for the new concept of an exhibition last year by the Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute (MAWI) which combined an exhibition of work by its art therapy patients with information about mental health that the public could access in a non-threatening environment.

"It was a huge success, and a perfect example of what we are trying to achieve as a resource centre and providing help to the community," Mrs. Evans-Cracknell says. "MAWI is going to come back this year bigger and better."

Similarly, the biennial exhibition of work by prison inmates is also very popular, and generates income for their families through sales of their work. The event also reminds the community that, while serving time, the talents of those who participate are being nurtured and enhanced – hopefully with a view to a positive future.

Of course, no charity could function without the volunteers whose help is so invaluable, and again Mrs. Evans-Cracknell is fulsome in her praise of their contributions, particularly those of Julie Hastings-Smith, and artist Kok Wan Lee.

"Julie, a ceramicist, works tirelessly, and has lots of gallery experience. She is a huge asset to the BSoA and to the artists, both performing and visual, and I value her expertise," she says. "Kok Wan Lee, a chef at The Reefs as well as an artist, is here every week. He also helps to hang every show, as well as being an enthusiastic and regular exhibitor who is a delight to have around. These two people do the work of six, and I can always count on them. Art is a big community, and you can't make decisions by yourself."

Also making valuable contributions to the Society on a weekly basis are retirees Anna Cann and Carolyn Boatman, and Mrs. Evans-Cracknell also pays tribute to Corporation of Hamilton staff, as well as the corporate sponsors and donors, without whom the BSoA could not survive.

Looking back on the Society's 55 proud years of existence, the executive director admits she is brimming with enthusiasm for what she sees as even greater progress and innovation in the years to come. "We all know how important art is, and I think that is really part of the reason why I am so driven," she says. "What is happening at the BSoA is a real transformation, which was one of my tasks when I accepted this position. We want to be not just an art gallery, but a resource for the Bermuda community as a whole. We want everyone to feel that they are the most important person to us. It is all about One Love."