“Art in Bloom” blossomed with reinvigorated life as approximately 200 people explored the 30-acre grounds of the breathtaking Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (LLNPP) during the unique festival this past weekend.
The community of Eleuthera enthusiastically celebrated the return of their one-of-a-kind springtime art and cultural event. Previously known as “Art in the Park,” the reimagined “Art in Bloom” festival returned from a several-year hiatus with diverse offerings of fine art, creative crafts, delicious treats, culinary delights, and unique products – all from local artists, craftspeople, and vendors of Eleuthera. Against the beautiful backdrop of The Preserve, an esteemed botanical garden and the island’s first national park, the event ushered in an atmosphere of colorful fun and festivity.
The afternoon affair was colored by various forms of entertainment and a kids corner, providing ample sights and sounds that engaged attendees as they perused art and explored the winding trails of the LLNPP. The evening presented live musical performances by New Vision Band, and a Junkanoo rushout.
Patrons also had the opportunity to purchase print copies of “A Jewel of Tropical Botany:” an incredible book that immerses readers in the history of the LLNPP, taking them on a journey filled with vivid colors, illustrations, and photographs that richly document the story of The Preserve. It highlights the national park’s flora and fauna, trails, and other exciting features, and chronicles how this esteemed botanical garden became a living part of Bahamian history.
“Art in Bloom” is a celebration of nature, art, and Bahamian culture. In addition to being The Bahamas National Trust’s (BNT) art and culture festival for Eleuthera and serving as a fundraiser for the LLNPP, it also provides a platform for local artists and businesses.
LLNPP Manager Lakeisha Wallace said: “‘We couldn’t be happier to welcome the community back to one of their favorite events on Eleuthera. Not only are they supporting conservation, but they’re also supporting local vendors.
“The incredible showcase of Bahamian biodiversity that is The Preserve provides the perfect landscape for this springtime event. Our hope with this fundraiser was to bring people together in their national park to enjoy the beauty of it while supporting great causes and having a good time. On that note, we were thrilled to see attendees connecting with their surroundings, enjoying the art, and fully immersing themselves in the excitement of ‘Art in Bloom.’”
All proceeds from “Art in Bloom” support conservation, education, and community programs at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve. Discover programs and experiences at The Preserve by visiting its website: www.levypreserve.org.
To become a BNT member and take advantage of free entrance to national parks and discounts to BNT events like “Art in Bloom,” as well as a host of other benefits, visit: https://bnt.bs/get-involved/become-a-member/
To learn more about the role the BNT plays in managing terrestrial and marine national parks, conserving wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs and follow/subscribe to its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram,Twitter, and YouTube.
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Media Contact: Leah Carr | lcarr@bnt.bs | (242) 429-7902
About the LLNPP:
Managed by The Bahamas National Trust (BNT), The Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve (LLNPP) was founded in 2003 and officially opened its trails to the public in 2011. It is a 30-acre, internationally acclaimed botanical garden and a regional leader in plant conservation. Founded by Shelby White in honor of her late husband Leon Levy, the LLNPP preserves the natural heritage of Eleuthera and acts as a showcase for Bahamian biodiversity, a hub for botanical research and environmental education, and a facility for the propagation and conservation of native plants.
About the BNT:
The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) was created by an Act of Parliament in 1959 to build and manage the national park system of The Bahamas. ]Possibly the only non-governmental organization in the world charged with such a responsibility, the BNT works daily to conserve and protect the natural resources of The Bahamas through science, stewardship and education for present and future generations. There are currently 33 National Parks managed by the BNT with more than 2 million acres of marine and terrestrial areas protected.
Website: www.bnt.bs
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Bahamas-National-Trust-25034035861/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bahamasnationaltrust/