Founded in 2017, contemporary art gallery Mestre Projects has developed a diverse and dynamic exhibition program that platforms Bahamian and Caribbean as well as international artists. Helmed by Jose Mestre, the gallery was formerly based in New York, but relocated to Nassau, the Bahamas, driven by Mestre’s vision. Unique to the gallery, Mestre Projects maintains a commitment to fostering and promoting individual artists in their practice and career, resulting in shows and events that are produced on a basis of collaboration, and lend themselves to greater cross-cultural dialogues.
We spoke with Mestre to learn more about the gallery’s trajectory and why the Bahamas should be on the international art world’s radar.
What is one thing you think people should know about the art scene in the Bahamas?
The art scene in the Bahamas is thriving both locally and internationally. There is an abundance of Bahamian talent who are globally recognized artists such as Tavares Strachan, Jeffrey Meris, Stan Burnside, and Kendal Hanna, among others. Hanna, for example, will be part of an upcoming documentary already selected for the Sundance Film Festival. The country has a strong community of collectors and supporters who appreciate and collect artwork by their fellow artists. Bahamians take great pride in their artistic community.
