For everyone on the Trust?s Walkabout on Friday evening, December 2, meeting Bermudian artist, Dan Dempster, was a memorable encounter.

Not only did the artist have a beautiful display of his current creative works on the wall but he served a delicious hot brew and established a friendly rapport with each curious guest. One could have a delightful chat, a hot drink and admire his dreamy art.

Mr. Dempster, the Artist in Residence with the Masterworks Foundation, has been in the lower apartment of historic Buckingham since October. While there he has composed 35 to 40 artworks. His main medium is oil on linen.

Having a great passion for the sea, he has created an amazing collection of Bermuda?s very natural water, rocks, light and sky in moods of airy variance, gentle solitude, and tranquillity.

His work appeals to the senses. One might wish to walk the beach barefoot and listen to the music of the sea after a quick study of his collection.

?For the last 16 years I have been intrigued with rippling water and the elements which encompass it.

?This July I was invited to Nova Scotia on commission and was struck by the light, the water, and the brilliant purples and flaming peaches of their startling sunsets.

?Back at home, I decided to focus on this ?water in the sky? ? the subtleties and drama of dusk and dawn at the edge of the sea,? said Mr. Dempster.

Some of his pictures relate to St. George?s such as Tobacco Bay, which reflects a nice fellowship of rocks and turquoise sea embraced by the deep horizon.

Another impressive work is the view from Ordnance Island looking west towards Ferry Reach in the late afternoon, ?diamonds sparkling on deep water?.

The work chosen for the Masterworks Collection is called, ?Water in the Sky?. Other recent pieces are Coney Island and three small pieces depicting Grape Bay.

When asked about his inspiration, he said: ?That would be the ?Celtic notion of magic? where the sea meets land and liminal zones are considered magical and full of potential.

?The diamond patterns of refraction are always changing. It is that fluid change which captivates my thoughts.

?The only thing constant in life is change. To present this dreaming is the artist?s gift to society.?Mr. Dempster will be leaving the Island shortly and welcomes those interested in viewing his art to contact the Desmond Fountain Gallery at 296-3518 or by email at dandemliquidlight.bm

He will be represented in St. George?s as of January with viewings by appointment.