Centre at Dockyard, to be launched in September will provide the "kick-off'' for a major fund-raising effort.

Proceeds from the two-day event will go towards the target of $75,000 needed to completely refurbish and air-condition the Dockyard facility.

The Victualling Yard, behind the Craft Market and the new Frog and Onion Pub, will provide the venue for the open-air arts and crafts fair planned for Labour Day weekend, September 5 and 6.

Ms. Jeanne Pare, curator of the Arts Centre says that Wedco, a staunch supporter of the Arts Centre since its inception, has agreed to provide the space.

Artists and artisans are being invited to participate in the first of what is hoped will be an annual event. Stalls, at nominal rents, will be set up in multi-coloured tents where stall-holders will be able to sell their wares to residents and tourists.

There will also be stalls for fast food, soft drinks, raffles. Admission to the fair will be gained by making a donation to the Arts Centre Renovation Fund.

Ms. Pare says she is anxious to hear as soon as possible from prospective artists and craftsmen who would be interested in renting a stall.

She is also hoping that local companies will participate by sponsoring advertisements of the event, assisting with the rental costs of tents and other equipment, or by underwriting printing costs.

Mr. Christopher Marson, well-known Bermudian watercolourist, has been commissioned to paint a special picture that will be printed as a poster to both advertise the fair and may also be purchased to commemorate the event.

Further information on the rental of stalls or offers of assistance may be obtained by telephoning Ms. Pare at the Arts Centre between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Tel. 234-2809.

COMMEMORATIVE POSTER -- Bermudian artist Mr. Christopher Marson has been commissioned to paint a watercolour scene of Bermuda which will be used to advertise September's Festival of Bermuda Arts.