Nassau, Bahamas - Doongalik Studios is pleased to announce their
first exhibition for the new year entitled, “A Whole New World: Journey to
Neverland”, a display of new works by Bahamian artist, Ryan Turnquest that were
inspired by the tragic loss of his younger brother, Chris Turnquest, in a
boating incident in Nassau Harbour on October 1, 2016, a tragedy that hurtled
the Turnquest family into a painful roller coaster ride which continues to affect
them all as it remains unresolved.
The works on display in the Exhibition are the
result of the artist’s ongoing emotional response to the incident which drew
him forcefully back into his art. After obtaining an Associate’s Degree in Art
from the College of The Bahamas, Turnquest entered Savannah College of Art and Design
in 2007 where he studied Industrial Design. He is making plans to complete his
final year and graduate from the programme.
Photo of the artist, Ryan Turnquest, at work
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Turnquest stated, “Chris’ death has inspired me
to return to my art after a drought of eight long years during which I have concentrated
on several business endeavours. However, being able to direct my thoughts and
feelings with such passion and purpose into the artwork once again has afforded
me a much-needed catharsis. These paintings depict powerful but humble
messages. They reflect not only my feelings, but also those of my immediate
family - my mother, my three sisters, my two children – as well as our extended
family. We would never, ever have imagined that something like this would have happened.
“Chris enjoyed life. In fact, he was given the
nickname ‘Peter Pan’ by the family because of his joyful nature. We both loved
boating, we loved being on the sea, and when I reflect on the many times over
the years that we worked on the boat together, it is extremely painful to know
that this is how Chris lost his life.”
The youngest son of the family, Chris was 25
years old when he died, so the artist’s goal was to produce 25 paintings in his
memory. Since the accident happened at
night, the artist’s paintings glow in the dark to represent his brother’s light
which still shines even after his unfortunate death. With the purpose of
preventing a similar tragedy happening to anyone else, the family started a
Facebook community page entitled ‘Justice for Chris” and they encourage the
public to visit the site and participate. Part proceeds from the sales at the
Exhibition will be donated to the Young Marine Explorer programme.
Painting of the artist’s brother, Chris Turnquest
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Gallery owner Pam Burnside commented: “We never
know what life will throw at us, nor how we will react. Art, however, is life,
and this exhibition is but another example of how crucial art and creativity
are to ensuring stability in society. It is unfortunate that many of us do not
recognize its power, nor do we encourage its development. Art and creativity
have the impetus to inspire, to question, to strengthen, and to change us in a
positive way, so we must ensure that they are an integral part of everything
that we do - as a people, as a community and as a nation.”
The Exhibition will be on display until Friday,
February 24. Gallery hours are Monday to Wednesday 10am – 4pm, or by
appointment. Further information can be obtained by contacting the gallery at
394-1886 or email pam.burnside@doongalik.com.
