Groundbreaking event at Masterworks

Lady Vereker and Premier Alex Scott will officially launch the beginning of excavation for the new Masterworks Museum of Art at the Arrowroot Factory in the Botanical Gardens, Paget today when a ground-breaking ceremony takes place at 3.30 p.m.

Lady Vereker, a keen supporter of the arts, is honorary chairwoman of the Museum's capital campaign, which has reached its start-up goal of $4.5 million in pledges. As a result, demolition of the former fern garden is imminent, and the new art museum is expected to be completed in late 2005.

Busy day at BNG

Today is an action-packed one for international jurors Bruce Katsiff and Kendal Henry, who are here to judge entries in the Bermuda National Gallery's 2004 Bacardi Biennial Exhibition.

During the day they will review all 413 entries submitted by 96 artists, and in the evening will deliver a special lecture on their experiences in the international art world at 6 p.m. at the National Gallery.

A reception at 5.30 p.m. will precede the lecture. Tickets are $5 for BNG members, $10 for others. To reserve ( 295-9428.

Mr. Henry is manager of New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority's permanent art programme while Mr. Katsiff is director and chief executive officer of the James A. Michener Museum in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

Today's lunchtime lecture, honouring Black History Month, is a video presentation entitled 'Faith Ringgold: The Last Story Quilt'. It takes an insiders' look at how one African-American woman, through patience, perseverance and education, fulfilled her dream of becoming an artist.

Written and directed by David Irving, it begins at 12.30 p.m. Admission is free.

Valentine's necklaces at Masterworks

Looking for something special for your Valentine? In keeping with its aim of building up a stock of gift items made by Bermudians, the Masterworks Gallery on Bermuda House Lane (off Front Street) has taken delivery of glass bead jewellery created by Bermudian Jessica Krindler. Just in time for Valentine's giving are necklaces featuring glass heart-shaped pendants on sterling silver chains. The collection also includes bracelets and earrings in fashionable colours.

Complimentary gift wrapping is offered on Valentine purchases, including original art. For further information ( 295-5580.

PALS slide show in March

Earmark March 10 for Ann Smith Gordon's annual slide show in aid of PALS. This time the subject is 'La Belle France'. Tickets ($10) are available from PALS office on Point Finger Road. ( 236-7257.