After the success of its 2018 launch, Summer Arts Immersion (SAI) returns this July to offer another four-week intensive programme designed for arts-minded high school seniors at the University of The Bahamas. Through unique studio projects, creative instruction, and professional development activities, students will work towards building strong university preparatory portfolios focusing on fine art, new media, and literary art.
On Thursday, 20th June successful applicants, parents, and members of the UB community filled the Harry C. Moore Library and Information Centre’s American Corner for SAI’s annual ‘Welcome Evening’. SAI Coordinators Antonius Roberts and Keisha Oliver recapped its 2018 programming, shared plans and opportunities for July, and introduced its 2019 team.
“SAI has been fortunate because of the generous support of our partners and sponsors to offer a scholarship opportunity for over 30 students to be immersed in a world-class pre-college arts program.” We are excited to see the talent this group produces”, said Antonius Roberts.
Bahamian creative professionals, including master artists Maxwell Taylor and Antonius Roberts, design contemporaries Tiffany Smith, Philece Roberts, and Keisha Oliver; and literary artist Yasmin Glinton, will lead this year's instruction. They will be supported by a team of assistants and UB students Marknesha Bastian, O’Vaughna Higgs, and Rachel Pyfrom; along with UB alumni Amaani Hepburn and Jonnique Beadle. The program will also host its second artist-in-residence Sheldon Saint, an award-winning Bahamian painter and resident of Grand Bahama.
The evening highlighted six 2018 Immergers who are returning to participate in the 2019 program. Among them was SAI’s 2018 UB Scholarship recipient, Rachel Pyfrom who is currently enrolled in UB’s Visual Arts programme. Rachel reflected on last year’s experience and shared her fondest moments with the group.
“I learned a lot last summer, but mostly SAI offered a good transition from high school to UB because it allowed me to appreciate my country more and become involved in the local art community. I’ve also developed closer relationships with Bahamian artists that I now respect as mentors.” said Rachel Pyfrom.
SAI is excited about its 2020 programming and opportunities as it has seen growth in the public interest and student enrolment since 2018. With its application numbers rising by 63%, the selection committee was pleased to also see an increase in Family Island applicants from Long Island, Eleuthera, and Abaco.
“Community is at the heart of the SAI vision. We aren’t simply offering another summer art experience, but we’re working towards building a community of creatives that bridges geographical and generational gaps; and offers opportunities for emerging creatives to advance within the program as students, teaching assistants, instructors and beyond”, said Keisha Oliver.
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