Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers and distributors of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, proudly celebrated Bahamian Musicians and Art with a spectacular 20-piece art exhibit showcasing works from students of the University of The Bahamas.

The Coca-Cola Art Project (CCAP), competition partnered with UB’s Visual Art and Design program challenging students to create pieces that honor and celebrate Bahamian music and musicians. Of the many entries, 20 pieces of work were selected to be featured in the exhibit’s finale held in Baha Mar’s ECCHO: Museum.
Out of 20, four budding artists were declared winners during the evening’s ceremony. They are: Jhanaisia Cole, with the pieces ‘Gaulin Bride’ and ‘Mimeograph’; Alyssa Pinder, with the piece ‘Shotgun Wedding’; Nelson Gray, with the piece ‘Tobi’; and Jaela Bowe, with the piece ‘Whims of Obeah, a Folktail’ dazzled the judging panel, securing their place.

Thanks to the Baha Mar Foundation’s generous partnership and contribution to the prize packages, the winning artists will be awarded an all expenses paid trip to Miami for this years’ illustrious Art Basel in Miami in December Art Basel is considered one of the world’s premier art experiences, and is a part of Miami’s Art Week.
Karla Wells-Lisgaris, Chief Commerical Operator for Caribbean Bottling Company and Caribbean Wines & Spirits (CWS), the alcohol arm to CBC; shared the inspiration behind this competition and exhibit.

“Art is an important part of any culture, and nation. The art community has blossomed in The Bahamas,” Wells-Lisgaris expressed.

The CCAP trails behind the Coca-Cola ‘Love My Bahamas Project’ 10 years ago. That project birthed many, now iconic, murals, paintings and sculptures around The Bahamas by renowned artists such as: Down Home Gals’ by Antonius Roberts, ‘Persevere’ by John Cox and ‘Rake n’ Scrape’ by Tyrone Ferguson.

Similar to how the Love My Bahamas Project changed the landscape of New Providence with its vibrant and culturally provoking work, the CCAP holds the same impact for the participating artists, especially the winners.
The evening was nothing short of beautiful. Guests filled the ECCHO: Museum, taking in the compelling work while enjoying hors d'oeuvres courtesy of Grand Hyatt and wine provided by CWS.

Thereafter, the opening ceremony began with a warm welcome.

The Right Honorable Glenys Hanna-Martin, Minister of Education and Technical and Vocational Training made remarks, speaking to the importance of collaboration.

“This beautiful celebration of Bahamian culture, music and art by Coca-Cola and UB is a testament to what young Bahamians can achieve when they are given the opportunity and support to express their full potentials, “she said.
Closing the ceremony was the highly anticipated announcement of the four winners. Audience members erupted in celebratory cheer as each student’s name was called.

Nelson Gray recalled the feeling he felt once their name was called.

“All glory to God! It feels great to be declared a winner but for me the journey was more important. I really enjoyed creating the piece and going through my artistic process, winning is the icing on the cake.” Gray revealed.
Jhanaisia Cole shared what winning this competition means to her.

“For my piece I experimented with coffee to create fluidity. Knowing that I tried something new while also focusing on theme of societal expectations of women in my art means a lot to me. I was inspired by the song Damn Fool by Exuma and it feels great to have my interpretation of that song recognized,” Cole expressed.
In addition to announcing the winners, another highlight of the night was the successful sale of a few pieces; a great experience for the young artists.

Caribbean Bottling Company is proud to facilitate the Coca-Cola Art Project, another example of the company's dedication to its corporate civic duty.