Local artists and writers have a new creative outlet thanks to the launch of The Kiskadee magazine by a 17-year-old Bermudian.

Lulu Hedstrom launched the pocket-sized culture magazine last week at a special reception held at Rock Island, Hamilton.

Among those featured in the first edition are singer Joy T Barnum; designer, writer and artist Dejon Simons; children’s author Mary Ellis; and illustrator Matilda Ellis.

Ms Hedstrom studies at Greenwich Academy in Connecticut and the magazine forms part of her studies.

The ambitious young student researched all aspects of magazine publication, from writing to printing, as part of an independent study for the course.

She said: “I had this idea last year and, as a Bermudian and someone who has worked on a similar project, a literary magazine for my high school, I wanted to combine my passion for art, writing and also the fact that I am Bermudian and really passionate about the island.

“It’s been a really good experience learning how to interact with local artists and writers. It’s also been a cultural education in the sense that Bermudians have so much to offer. The goal of the magazine is to highlight all the talent that exists in Bermuda.”

The Kiskadee was funded by the Bermuda Arts Council and printed locally by Island Press. About 100 copies are available through the Bermuda Book Store and an online version is to be launched in the middle of this month.

There are QR codes throughout the book which will lead readers to additional online content. Joy T Barnum’s song lyrics, for example, link to a recording of the song online, while Johnny Barnes can be heard saying a Bermuda prayer online.