Kim Smith and President Glenn Bannister unveil "Mangrove Tranquility"
BNT’s 19th Wine and Art Festival
The BNT opened their gates at 12 noon on Saturday, October 24th for their Annual Wine and Art Festival sponsored by Bristol Wines and Spirits. “This was our 19th Wine and Art Festival and we are extremely grateful to Bristol Wines and Spirits for their support of Trust and it’s work” commented Eric Carey, BNT Executive Director.
This annual festival featured Bristol Wines and Spirits new wines for the season as selected by Wine Director Rusty Scates. “We look forward each year to providing this opportunity for the public to taste and learn about wines. It has also become an event where new young artists have an opportunity to introduce the public to their work.”
Two new sponsors Gourmet Markets and King’s Realty also joined the BNT in sponsoring the festival. “ We were delighted to have the support of Gourmet Markets and King’s Realty,” said Lynn Gape, BNT Deputy Executive Director.
According to Lynn Gape, Deputy Executive Director this year was especially exciting as there are many artists from the Family Islands. “ The BNT truly enjoys organizing an event that showcases such wonderful Bahamian talent. We were very excited to have Lisa MaLu from Cat Island, Kimberly Sturrup Roberts from Abaco, and Nicole Angelica from Grand Bahama. Nikita Sheil Rolle and John Thompson also provided patrons with a sneak preview of their new book Islands in the Sun: A Tribute to the Northern Exuma Cays, Bahamas.
Annual favorites also participated and patrons had a chance to visit with Thierry Lamare, Jonathon Bethell , Livingston Pratt, and John Paul. The Trust was also delighted to have Antonius Roberts and Melissa Maura return as exhibitors.
The Members evening Silent Auction on Friday, October 23rd was well attended. “ Our members evening this year was particularly special as we unveiled Mangrove Tranquility by Kim Smith who is donating 15% of the sale price of the drawing to the BNT in honour of our 50th Anniversary.”
All proceeds from the event support the National Park system, which includes 26 Protected areas and is managed by The Bahamas National Trust.
