New museum exhibit highlights Bermuda limestone
The National Museum of Bermuda’s newest exhibit explores the history of Bermuda limestone on the island and in the United States.
An NMB spokeswoman said Stone: From Bermuda to Charleston chronicles how the material shaped “Bermuda’s iconic, white-roofed homes and Charleston, South Carolina’s historic structures, built during the 17th and 18th centuries”.
The exhibit features artwork from Bermudian John Gardner, who shows Bermuda limestone from different viewpoints and incorporates pieces inspired by local stonecutters.
The spokeswoman added: “By presenting the same material in various contexts, Stone reveals the cultural and architectural links between these two regions, providing new insights into the stone’s far-reaching impact.”
Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and Acting US Consul-General Vanja Vukot joined more than 80 others when the exhibit opened this month.
NMB curator Deborah Atwood said: “As both an artist and an architect, Mr Gardner brings a multifaceted perspective to the exhibit, emphasising the architectural significance of Bermuda limestone across the Atlantic.
“By bridging the gap between history, architecture and creative expression, his work invites a broader audience to explore the complex relationships and experiences that have shaped Bermuda and the Atlantic world through the lens of this humble stone.”
Mr Gardner said: “It has been revealing to appreciate the material, as it appears so differently, in Bermuda and Charleston.
“The act of rendering and interpreting the material and its context visually has breathed life into understanding its quiet presence.
“Thank you to Bermuda Arts Council for their support, and Larry Mills, Carl Coppola and Justin Schwebler for helping to inspire and make this exhibit a reality.”
• The exhibit will be on display in the Commissioner’s House until November 7, 2025