An exhibition of more than 1,000 paintings by children celebrating Bermuda's 400th anniversary have gone on display and some will also go on display in the United States.

The St. George's Foundation, Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, and the Muscarelle Museum of Art in Virginia came together to organise an exhibition of work by Bermuda children exploring the Island's landmark anniversary.

Initially it was hoped to get 400 postcard-sized drawings to celebrate the landmark, but with 18 schools taking part the response was overwhelming and in the end 1,000 pictures were submitted.

In addition to the schools, entries also came from the Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy, Learning Express Academy and Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art.

The St. George's Foundation director of education, Leondra Burchall said: "We expected to meet our goal, but we never imagined receiving 1,000 entries," she said.

"We are elated to co-sponsor a programme that expands students' definition of history beyond words in a textbook. History is all around us and we want students to know they have a voice and place in our history."

The exhibit, currently on display at the ACE Gallery, depicts the breadth of Bermuda's history from a 17th century mid-Atlantic outpost to a bustling 21st century economic hub.

Masterworks education coordinator, Carrie Zenti said the quality of work was outstanding, and the marriage of art and history had given the students a unique outlet of expression.

"I encourage the community to come view the colourful exhibition to witness the charm, talent and insight of our young historians and artists," said Mrs. Zenti.

"Collaborating on this project with The St. George's Foundation, ACE Gallery and the school community, who embraced this 400-year postcard project, demonstrates the appreciation of the power of the visual arts in facilitating enriched learning in the classroom," she added.

Lori Samson, chief administration officer ACE Group Bermuda said: "We were almost overwhelmed by the response we expected a collection of about 400 postcards, however, this has grown into a wonderful display of more than 1,000 works of art created by Bermuda's young artists.

"ACE welcomes the whole community to come and visit the exhibition and share in our celebration of Bermuda's 400th anniversary."

The exhibit is on display until June 12 at the ACE Gallery in Hamilton, and will then move to the World Heritage Centre at Pennos Wharf in St. George's on July 1 and remain there through the end of August.

On August 1, 200 postcards will travel to the Muscarelle Museum of Art in Williamsburg, Virginia, at the College of William and Mary and be on display until August 23.

"We are pleased to have the Muscarelle Museum as our international partner as it will be a very special voyage for 200 postcards to travel onto Williamsburg."

The ACE Gallery is located in the ACE Building, 17 Woodbourne Avenue, Hamilton.

The Gallery is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Groups should call for an appointment 295-5200.