The Bermuda National Gallery held an awards ceremony in Par-La-Ville Park to celebrate the opening of the Sculpture Garden.

Located at The City Hall and Arts Centre, the BNG was opened in 1992 and is home to Bermuda’s national art collection as well as the Island’s thriving arts scene.

Corporation of Hamilton Mayor Sutherland Madeiros was on hand to officially open the garden, in conjunction with several local dignitaries.

The unveiling was dedicated to the memory of the late John Hinson Young, his wife Nelga Young, and the late Jay Bluck, former Mayor of Hamilton.

Three sculptures from the Youngs’ collection of modern art, as well as a springstone sculpture by Zimbabwean artist Jonathan Mhondorohuma, have been installed in the park.

Mr. Madeiros said: “We are delighted that these sculptures are now installed in Par-La-Ville Park. This project not only fulfils the dreams of John and Nelga Young, but my good friend and predecessor, the late Jay Bluck.

“As Mayor and a family trustee of the Bermuda National Gallery, Jay had a life-long passion for the city and the arts.

“I know this sculpture garden was dear to his heart.”

The unveiling coincided with the 15th anniversary of the BNG and to mark the occasion, BNG deputy chairman Gary Phillips presented awards to 15 people who have played a key role in the museum’s establishment.

Those receiving awards were: Desmond Fountain, Dr. Charles Zuill, Michael Darling, Dennis Sherwin, Jay Bluck, Ruth Thomas, John Kaufmann, the late Maurine Cooper, Georgine Hill, Edgar Humann, Sir Christopher Ondaatje, Albert and Louise Jackson, Geoffrey Elliott, the late John Young and Nelga Young. Community and Cultural Affairs Minister Wayne Perinchief was also present to accept an award given to Government from the BNG, along with former Premier Dame Jennifer Smith, who is a trustee.

Following the reception, a Jazz party was held at the BNG featuring popular singer Gita Blakeney-Saltus.