visiting the Bermuda Arts Centre where you will meet Julie Hastings-Smith, curator of four years.

Ms. Hastings-Smith takes care of all the administrative matters and organises exhibits for the various artists. She said: "A jury show of three people decide upon what's to be in a show to maintain standards and to help the artist improve and develop.'' There is a new exhibit every six weeks with a titled theme. November 22 marks the next one called, "Not the painting show'', which features work such as textiles, collage, photography and sculpture. It finishes January, 5.

The Centre was established in 1984 with the purpose of fostering an appreciation and understanding of the arts.

Housed in one of the historic building at Dockyard it boasts a main gallery which is used as an exhibiting area to feature the latest work of Bermuda's artists.

In addition there are three working studios where resident artisans can be seen. A print gallery offers a wide selection of local prints and a "shop'' area holds an ever-changing display of the unique, mixed media work produced by various art members.

Arts Centre fosters creativity Here are a few tidbits about a few of the artists.

J.A. Mark Emmerson is known for his platinum prints. Only a handful of artists in the world claim mastery of this delicate art.

Jonah Jones started painting in 1992 and people have described his work as "vivid having an intense, even violent palette''. He paints primarily in oils, in a thick impasto with vivid colours and contrasts.

Lynn Morrell is a Bermudian artist who responds to the beauty and mystery of the world around her. I particularly admired one of her wall hangings, "Palm Leaf'' hand painted in vibrant shades of yellow and green. She crafts lovely sterling jewellry.

Arthur Chesley Trott is a resident artist here specialising in sculptures. He says, "My sculptures are visual expressions of my hopes, dreams, experiences and interests.

John Finch and daughter, Carolyn Finch are known for their watercolour and gouache paintings. Gouache is water based like watercolour with chalk added which gives a finer, crisper detail.

The Arts Centre is a "not for profit'' organisation.

ART ON SHOW -- Arts Centre curator Julie Hastings-Smith KEEPSAKES -- This photograph shop is one of the Clocktower's many attractions