The Bermuda Society of Arts has a new gallery director. She is Mrs. Victoria Evans-Cracknell, a Bermudian who has been both a member and supporter of the Society for many years.

?With her extensive creative, though disciplined, corporate background, plus her combined enthusiasm and love of the arts, Vikki was a perfect match,? BSoA president, Ben Fairn, said of the appointment. ?The entire board of directors is thrilled with her acceptance as the new gallery director.?

Mrs. Evans-Cracknell succeeds Peter Lapsley, who served in the post for almost five years before recently resigning to pursue further studies abroad.

Prior to her appointment, Mrs. Evans-Cracknell was employed at Butterfield Bank, where she served on its charitable donations committee and donors forum. She has also participated in the local philanthropic arena, and is dedicated to the concept of giving back to the community through exchanging knowledge, resources and education.

?All of her experience, creativity, corporate discipline, and philanthropy is paramount to the continued success and growth of the BSoA,? Mr. Fairn said.

?We welcome Vikki to the position of gallery director, and look forward to her fulfilling the objectives of the Society, which is to diversify, solidify and grow the gallery into the position of ?the people?s? gallery? welcoming all artists ? young, old, first-time novice and professional, including current and potential members from the various communities in Bermuda.?

The holder of a graphic design degree, Mrs. Evans-Cracknell?s has extensive work experience both here and abroad, largely centred on marketing, public relations, graphic/web design and event management.

Returning to the Island in 2002, she assisted with ?The New Spirit of Bermuda? the Fairmont Hotels and Resorts? gala showcasing the $100 million dollar refurbishment of its Bermuda properties ? before becoming the hotel chain?s web manager, a consultant position embracing improving web content through creative copy writing and better imagery.

Mrs. Evans-Cracknell joined Butterfield Bank in 2004 as an event and communication specialist. Promoted to marketing account manager, she surpassed the Bank?s key objectives in many ways, including improving brand recognition and revitalising existing Bank-sponsored community events such as the Butterfield Bank Arts Festival, Round-de-Rock with Concerts in the Park, as well as sponsoring new signature Bank events, including the recent Alex Fox concert.