Bermuda like many communities is now confronted with gang related behavior.It is shocking and disturbing to witness how quickly it has taken root. Complaining will not bring about the change we seek, neither will the police force.
What is happening here is happening in many communities. We have an incredible opportunity. Living on such a small island, there are no strangers here. There is no doubt in my mind that we must hold ourselves accountable. Meet the young boys I have taught. Are they not worth our self examination? Until we can understand how we have contributed to this madness, we will have to continue to live with it.
As an artist and an educator I am asking questions and searching for ways to become more effective as an artist. I invite you to look at the faces of our children and in their faces, see your cousins, grandchildren and neighbors. The new gangster is not a stranger, we know him.
The Gold Collection is a compilation of pastel and encaustic portraits of young black Bermudian schoolboys between the ages of five and fourteen. I wanted a way to change the kind of conversation we are having about violence. The keys to the change is in our houses and in our ability to be truthful to ourselves. It is important to remember that there are no victims here.