The “artistic giants” were celebrated at Bermuda Arts Council’s annual awards ceremony.

Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented on Sunday to six artists who have created artwork that represents the “Bermudian spirit”.

And Founders Awards were given to three artists who have been mentors and role models for their fellow artists and future ones.

Zane DeSilva, the Minister of Social Development and Sport, said: “Their works have not only left indelible markings on Bermuda’s artistic and cultural landscape, but such contributions have literally transformed the arts in our island home.

“Our lives have been enriched and for that we are most grateful.”

Lifetime Achievement Awards went to author Angela Barry, dance teacher Linda Manders, visual artists Vaughn and Amy Evans, art educator Olga Simons, and Jean Hannant, who received a posthumous award for theatre.

Mr DeSilva said the ceremony paid homage to “these artistic giants” and “each of the honourees had infused life and vibrancy for all to enjoy, be inspired by, and uplifted”.

He added: “The recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award and the Founders Award have caused the arts to flourish in Bermuda.

“Their passion for the arts, and their unfailing commitment to the development of the arts has been monumental; at times involving much sacrifice and always requiring dedication and unwavering determination.

“The Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to those persons who are considered pioneers in their respective art form and because they would have created significant bodies of original work that is representative of the Bermudian spirit.”

Mr DeSilva said the Founder’s Award was created by the Bermuda Arts Council “to be bestowed upon Bermudians considered to be the “cornerstones” upon which the arts in this community have been built”.

The award was presented posthumously to Terry Brannon for his work in the music industry, as well as to Anne Maule and Peter Nash, of the Somerset Lot, for “their impressive contributions to the world of theatre”.