WELL-KNOWN entertainer Gita Blakeney-Saltus has joined the staff of the Bermuda National Gallery.

The talented singer will take on the role of assistant development director and will initially be responsible for fund-raising initiatives and increasing the charity's membership, gallery director Laura Gorham said in announcing the appointment.

"These are obviously two key areas for us as a non-profit organisation and so we are delighted to have on board someone with Gita's experience and energy," said Ms Gorham.

"We rely on donations and membership to fund our activities as the island's national art museum which include not only exhibitions, but also educational programmes, academic resources and the acquisition of new works for the national collection.

"Gita is well known in the community and we believe that the commitment and enthusiasm she brings to everything she does will be a valuable asset for the gallery."

Prior to joining the gallery, Ms Blakeney-Saltus worked at the Council Partners Charitable Trust as Community Events and Public Relations Co-ordinator. She has previous experience in sales and convention managerial roles, having worked for many local hotels, including Cambridge Beaches, the Fairmont Hamilton Princess and Elbow Beach.

A student of the Berkeley Institute, she received further education in the United States, Canada and the Sorbonne in Paris.

"I am delighted to be working in an artistic environment such as the Bermuda National Gallery," she said. "As a performer I love the arts, in particular the theatre and the visual arts, so personally I am thrilled about this position as it creates a synergy with the performing and visual arts.

"I have always focused on contributing and serving my community and I certainly look forward to being a part of the continued success of the Bermuda National Gallery."