The Bermuda Arts Council (BAC), the main external funding body of the Department of Culture, is pleased to announce the first recipients of its 2025 grants, highlighting the organisation’s continued dedication to supporting local artists and cultural institutions. The awardees reflect a diverse range of disciplines and stages of creative development, showcasing the depth of talent within Bermuda’s arts community. These grants aim to empower creatives in delivering meaningful projects that enhance the island’s cultural landscape.
Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, said: “We are proud to support these talented individuals and organisations through the Bermuda Arts Council’s restructured grant programme. This initiative reflects our Government’s belief in the power of the arts to strengthen our communities, preserve our heritage, and inspire future generations. By investing in Bermuda’s creatives, we are actively shaping a culturally rich and inclusive future for our island.”
Chair of the Bermuda Arts Council, Shanna Hollis, shared: “I am delighted to see the efficiency and accessibility of our new digital application process having such a profound impact on both the number and diversity of applications received. This year, we are proud to welcome a new wave of creatives to our roster of awardees, bringing innovative and fresh ideas. This growth speaks to the hard work and commitment of our Council, and our shared determination to ensure Bermuda’s creatives are aligned with best practices and international standards in grant funding. Our new grant structure empowers artists to plan more effectively, while also supporting them in managing expectations and executing their projects successfully.”
The following individuals and organisations have been selected for the following grant categories:
Project Grant ($5,000): Awarded to KyraJaye Harvey for the development and presentation of a music EP, Phases. This grant supports the creation and execution of specific artistic projects that contribute to Bermuda's cultural scene.
Materials & Equipment Grant ($2,000): Granted to CoShaun Evans for the purchase of recording equipment to support his creative practice.This grant assists artists in acquiring necessary materials and equipment to enhance their work.
Cliff Jumper Grant ($2,500): Presented to Yusef Bushara for a literary arts project, “Good News,” a poetry collection demonstrating innovation and personal growth. This grant encourages young artists to take bold steps in their creative journeys, fostering experimentation and development.
Stewardship & Production Grant ($3,000): Given to Fredrick Remaul Hassell for the production of a book, “Flog Your Memory, Write It Down,” aimed at community engagement and storytelling. This grant supports projects that promote cultural stewardship and the production of artistic works.
Onion Bulb Grant ($1,000): Awarded to Krystal S. Lowe for the creation of a dance theatre production titled Interwoven, and to Kayla McConnie for the expansion of her photography business, Kayla Nicole Photos, including new equipment and services. This grant provides micro-funding for emerging artists to develop their initial projects.
Education & Experience Grant ($2,000): Granted to Malaysia De Rosa for continued studies and professional training in dance. This grant supports artists seeking educational opportunities to further their artistic skills and knowledge.
Professional Development Grant ($2,500): Awarded to Terence ‘Tino’ Martinez for a professional development project in music production. This grant assists artists in pursuing activities that contribute to their professional growth.
Organisational Grant ($5,000): Presented to Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation for arts education programming supporting children and youth in the community. This grant provides financial aid to organisations dedicated to enriching Bermuda's arts community.
To learn more, about each of the BAC grants, please visit www.artscouncil.bm.