ecological-themed works of art.

The Bermuda Biological Station for Research and The Masterworks Foundation are currently seeking artistic submissions for an exhibition based on an ecological theme.

Entitled `Eco-art', the artwork will be displayed at six Hamilton locations: the ACE building, Colonial Insurance Foyer Gallery, Rock Island Coffee, Capital G Centre, City Hall and the Masterworks Gallery on Front Street.

"The exhibition hopes to increase environmental awareness in the local community,'' said BBSR spokesperson Kathleen Frith. "Artists have been asked to showcase humanity's unique and delicate relationship with the environment.'' Masterworks Foundation organiser Elise Outerbridge added: "We hope to get several artists involved. We also hope to display a very broad interpretation of the theme, with pieces ranging from landscapes to sculptural installations.'' Submissions for the October 2-31 show will be judged by a panel of local artists and art collectors including Michael Butt, Sharon Wilson, Charles Zuill, Paula Clarke-Bedard and Judy Gibbons.

The judges will award prizes for the pieces that best exemplify the theme with the first-place award consisting of two round-trip tickets to Cost Rica.

"We hope to use artwork to affect people's emotion about our environment and inspire them to become interested in the work being done to preserve its pristine condition,'' added Ms Frith.

The artwork will be available for sale with a portion of the artists' proceeds going towards environmental research and education at the BBSR and Masterworks Foundation's attempts to nurture art depicting Bermuda or created by Bermudians and assisting their education programmes.

To submit artwork for the show contact Elise Outerbridge at Masterworks Foundation at 295-2379. Submissions must be in by September 15.