Writing the Weight: Poetics of Response

SIREN SONGS: 2026 Bermuda Biennial

"Bravely the figure of this harpy hast thou Perform'd"

—Shakespeare, The Tempest, 3.3.81–82

Legendarily, the uninhabited archipelago later named Bermuda was discovered when sailors, misled by the seductive songs of sirens, crashed against its perilous rocky shores. The 1609 shipwreck of the Sea Venture—and the storm that caused it—inspired Shakespeare's The Tempest (c. 1610–1611) and is depicted on Bermuda's coat of arms.

Sirens, mythological hybrids of human and bird or fish (mermaids), personify the dual terrors of wind and sea. A dialectical figure, the siren sings a song both soothing and potentially lethal: to follow it may lead to death, yet if heeded as a warning, it could conduct you to safety. This duality—warning and seduction—aptly describes the contrast of voices in the 2026 Bermuda Biennial. The artists' works reflect a dynamic clash of ideas and approaches in a range of mediums that echo Bermuda's origin story.

Staged by the Bermuda National Gallery since 1994, the Bermuda Biennial functions as both an international art exhibition and a local juried showcase. This year's exhibition offers an expansive and intergenerational survey of Bermudian artistic excellence. Half of the artists are first-time participants, their work displayed alongside that of established figures.  What emerges is not a single voice, but a layered polyphonic chorus. Rather than a snapshot, it is a long exposure of Bermudian art history, refracted through the present moment.

The 2026 Bermuda Biennial is co-curated by Akili Tommasino and Julie Crooks. Exhibition sponsored by the Green Family.

Ocean Inspired Paint n Sip

Join Black Pearl Art Academy for a special Saturday afternoon at The Reefs, where you will paint the iconic, sun-drenched views of the island in vibrant watercolours. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural landscape, catch the ocean breeze, and bring home some beautiful pieces of Bermuda. 

All Experience Levels Welcome

What Is Included:

• All Premium Materials
• Complimentary Beverage: Enjoy your choice of chilled prosecco, mimosa, refreshing rosé, cold beer, or a delicious mocktail as you paint. 
• Expert Guidance: Learn techniques to capture the island's unique light, water, and scenery.

Details

• When: Saturday November 28
• 12.00 - 2.00 PM
• The Reefs, Southampton
• Price: $130 (All-Inclusive)

Your all-inclusive ticket covers expert instruction, all premium painting materials, and your choice of chilled prosecco, a crisp mimosa, refreshing rosé, cold beer, or a mocktail.

We also offer an optional $220 Premium take-home bundle that includes a professional watercolour set, brushes, and a watercolour travel journal so you can keep creating long after the session ends.

How to Book:  www.blackpearlartacademy.com

You can also reserve your space by messaging us directly at: [email protected]

Introduction to Drawing: Dramatic Fundamentals

4-week Drawing Course beginning October 6th: Dramatic Fundamentals

Transform your sketches into striking, dramatic artwork. This course guides you through different techniques in shading, high-contrast values, visual emphasis, and form. Hosted in a small-group setting, you will receive guidance in a fully supportive environment designed to help you build confidence and skills in art.

• When: Tuesday Evenings

• Dates: Oct 6, 13, 20, 27

• Time: 6.00 PM – 7.30 PM

• Price: $380 (all materials provided)

• Who: All skill levels welcome

Visit our website to reserve your place.

Contact: Sarah at (441)901-8353

Introduction to Watercolours

Introduction to Watercolours (4 Week course)

Explore the spontaneous chaos of watercolours. Learn essential techniques such as washes, wet-on-wet, and colour mixing, all while gaining an understanding of how to control water and pigment on paper. Suitable for those who are new and enjoy watercolour painting, this course encourages creative exploration in a relaxed, fun and supportive small group.  

When: Thursdays evenings

Dates: October 8, 15, 22, 27

Time: 6.00 - 7.30 PM

Where: Latte's Cafe, Paget

Price: $390 (all materials provided)

Visit our website to reserve your place.

Contact: Sarah at (441) 901-8353