The Ministry of Tourism Downtown Mural Project: Open Call for Bahamian Artists

NASSAU, Bahamas – 28 March 2024 - The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation is pleased to announce the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Downtown Nassau Mural Project. This initiative seeks to engage visual artists in revitalizing Downtown Nassau by creating vibrant murals celebrating the nation's rich culture.

The Downtown Nassau Mural Project invites individual Bahamian artists or artist teams to submit proposals for highly visible locations in the Downtown Nassau District. With themes ranging from "Old Nassau" to "Bahamian Futurism," artists are encouraged to propose designs that resonate with the local community and contribute to the city's cultural identity. This project will not only enhance the visual appeal of Downtown Nassau but also create a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

The Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, expressed his enthusiasm about the project: "We believe that art has the power to transform communities and create a sense of identity. The mural project in Downtown Nassau is an opportunity for artists to showcase their creativity and contribute to the cultural vibrancy of our capital city."

The Ministry of Tourism has collaborated with the Visual Arts Programme at the University of The Bahamas on the development of the Downtown Mural project. The aim is to promote the rich culture and heritage of The Bahamas and enhance the tourism sector. Through this partnership, the beauty of The Islands of The Bahamas will be showcased to the world.

Senator Randy Rolle emphasized the significant contribution of the Visual Arts Programme of the University of The Bahamas to the project, "By integrating the Visual Arts Programme into this mural project, we are not only acknowledging the university's pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of artists but also providing these young talents with an invaluable platform to showcase their skills on a public stage."

The Ministry of Tourism invites all interested artists to submit their proposals by 15 April 2024. Artists should include a detailed concept, an artist's statement, an estimated timeline and a budget in their proposals. The selection committee, which includes members of the Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation and representatives from the University of The Bahamas, will review the proposals and select the most compelling and fitting design for the mural project.

Selected artists will receive commissions to complete their proposed murals, and all artworks must be completed by 31 May. The official launch and opening of the murals are scheduled for 10 June 2024.

Artists are encouraged to take this opportunity to make their mark on Downtown Nassau and be part of this transformative project.

Proposals should be submitted at www.bahamas.com/downtown-revitalization- mural-project

For more information on the Submission and Judging Criteria visit www.tempo.cdn.tambourine.com/windsong/media/downtown-nassau-mural- submission-and-judging-guidelines-660562e2d4360.pdf