Eighth Annual Edward Gartland Fundraiser Huge Success

On January 28th 2023, the Edward Gartland Youth Centre, in collaboration with The Shore Club, Gilley’s Enterprises, Turks and Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty (TCSIR) and Finishing Touch, hosted ‘An Exclusive Evening of Art Exhibition and Fundraiser’.

The eighth annual all-inclusive event was hosted at the exclusive Shore Club Resort and featured a collection of artworks from local, international and student artists.

Alongside the fantastic Shore Club Team, Pamela Leach, Leslie Williams, Tanis Wake-Forbes and volunteers donated their time to curate and transform the ballroom into a gallery creating a truly magical event. “It is truly gratifying to be involved in such a worthy event that benefits our youth and showcases our local talent” commented Finishing Touch, Managing Director, Tanis Wake-Forbes.

Twenty-Two local and international artists exhibited in the show, which included a range of mediums of art from acrylic and oil paintings, photography, digital art and sculptures, were all available for purchase. International Artist and Turks and Caicos Native, Bradley Theodore Harvey, featured his art in the live auction and created an air of excitement for his highly sought after masterpieces.

Patrons were wowed by performances from the Youth Centre. The Youth Centre Elite Dancers performed a specially choreographed Latin Fusion dance, whilst alumni, Deangelo McLeod aka Soulful D serenaded the crowd on his saxophone. Young singer, Avian Patrick sang an original song produced by Eustace Swann. It was fair to say that all-in-all, the entertainment was a magnificent display of the creativity and originality that pours out of our youth in the islands.

The evening did not end there! Guests were moved from the fabulous ballroom and into the stunning courtyard where DJ Elridge energized the dance floor with his set.

Galmo Williams, Founding Member of the Edward Gartland Gartland Youth Centre states: “As a proud sponsor of this annual event, we wish to thank all of the organisers for yet another successful showcase. Seeing the talents of Turks and Caicos artists on full display is always amazing to see and we can’t wait to see what next year brings.”

Director for the Edward Gartland Youth Centre, Roxann Wake-Forbes, added “we are so grateful to see the unwavering support from the community and visitors to our islands. We have been truly blessed by the talents of the various artists, our amazing curation committee, our volunteers, Bradley Theodore Harvey and all those who have helped us along the way. Shore Club Team were astounding as always and support from TCSIR was great. A picturesque venue, mouthwatering food, beautiful artwork and wonderful people!”

Joe Zahm, President of Turks & Caicos Sotheby’s International Realty, commented that “This year’s annual art auction was in my opinion our best yet. Roxann and her team did an amazing job and the Shore Club was the perfect host, with amazing food and hospitality.

The Art was amazing, and we raised a record $90K for the youth centre. Our own Bianca slayed as auctioneer. Special thanks to the artists and volunteers and especially to our home grown celebrity artist Bradley Theodore Harvey who has been so generous with his talents.”

Karen Whitt, Hartling Group Vice-President Sales, Marketing, Brand Development stated, “The Hartling Group is so proud to be a part of such an amazing event, and we congratulate the organizers and contributors who donated their time, talents and resources towards the success of the Art Show.”

The Edward Gartland Youth Centre would like to thank all of their sponsors, supporters and the community who came out to support the event and help raise funds for the centre.