Since 2008, Bermuda Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art has hosted the biennial visual art competition known as the Charman Prize. Now in it’s 8th year, Bermuda’s artists are encouraged to participate.

The Charman Prize is a unique competition and exhibition for art inspired by Bermuda. It was established to honour and support local and resident artists. This competition is sponsored by patron, Mr. John Charman, a local businessman and avid art collector. The exhibition is held every other year at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda.

“This is a huge undertaking, and we are grateful for Mr. Charman being our sponsor and patron. Part of our mandate is to support Bermuda’s artists; this competition, with it’s associated prize monies, not only celebrates the diverse talents of Bermuda’s artists, but provides them financial support,” says Tom Butterfield, Director.

To streamline the process, the application date has been moved forward to May 13, 2019. We will take delivery of the physical art works the first week of June, giving us time for initial judging and photography for the exhibition catalogue.”

There are a total of 5 categories, with the total prize monies at $18,000. Categories are: Design & Composition, Use of Material, Distinctive and Convincing style, Inspiration, and the overall Charman Prize valued at $10,000.

Winner of the 2017 Charman Prize, Alia Hazma shares her experience; “As a newcomer with no formal artistic training, winning the Charman Prize 2017 has been integral to my journey. It has driven me to focus on my development and as a result, I’m currently in London pursuing a foundation degree in Art & Design. The Charman Prize 2017 gave me the space and the support I needed, to not only realize and share my voice, but to join other artists in important conversations about art and Bermuda. Bermuda is in such a formative place and I am excited to see where we go from here not only as a country but as a community of creators. The Charman Prize affirms that our voices matter.”

For more information, interested persons can contact Flora Goodall, Special Exhibits Coordinator, at 299-4004. Application Forms are available from the Masterworks Website www.bermudamasterworks.org or from the Masterworks Front Desk.

• Press release from Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art