We are pleased to announce the publication and presentation of the historic book Love and Responsibility: The Dawn Davies Collection to the Nassau Public Library.
Love and Responsibility is a full colour, richly illustrated 548 page hardback text that draws on the extensive art collection of Bahamian art collector Dawn Davies, to present in a language accessible to all, the history and development of Bahamian art and visual culture.
It is the first book of its kind to be produced in the Bahamas and the wider Caribbean, and reveals a rich and fascinating history too few Bahamians are aware of.
Through a personal essay written by the collector Dawn Davies and a series of thirty-one essays written by Dr. Erica James, Assistant Professor of the History of Art and African American Studies at Yale University and founding director of the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, the text explores various themes that are central to the Davies collection and the story of Bahamian artistic production. It will serve as a resource for years to come to Bahamians and interested persons far beyond our shores.
Dionne Benjamin Smith, a gifted graphic artist and a fine artist in her own right designed the book and Mr. Roland Rose photographed all the artwork reproduced in the text.
The book is a culmination of four years of hard work and is indicative of Ms. Davies’ unparalleled commitment to the cultivation and growth of Bahamian art and culture. Its presence in the holdings of the Nassau Public library will assist in making it accessible to all Bahamians.
Love and Responsibility: The Dawn Davies Collection is also available for purchase at Doongalik Arts on Village Road and The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, West Hill Street. All net proceeds from the text will be donated to the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.
