"Love Of Country"

June 24, 2023

In the spirit of celebrating the profound love and unwavering devotion that John Cox and Antonius Roberts have for their beloved country, we are delighted to present the exhibition "Love of Country." This exhibition stands as a testament to their deep-rooted connection to The Bahamas and their exceptional contributions to the nation's art scene. Their artistic endeavors have served as a visual love letter to The Bahamas, inspiring a sense of national pride and fostering a profound appreciation for the country's unique identity. 

Through their unwavering commitment to their craft and their invaluable mentorship, Cox and Roberts have become guiding lights for artists, particularly the next generation. In 1999, Cox established Popopstudios International Center for the Visual Arts, an artists cooperative, significantly influencing the growth and redefinition of art in The Bahamas. His efforts extend to nurturing young talent and fostering the development of Bahamian artists. Within his own practice, his masterful use of colors, textures, and forms in evocative paintings and mixed media assemblages has captivated audiences for decades. Cox's artistic journey has been characterized by constant growth and innovation, making him a living testament to the power of exploration and pushing artistic boundaries. Case in point in this exhibition displays his ability to transform a simple statement, “This Is How Much I Love You”, into an iconic slogan igniting viewers to think deeply about the notion of love and how transformative it can be. His current position as Executive Director of Arts & Culture at the Baha Mar Resort has not only allowed him to impact locals and visitors with this slogan, but also continue to share the Bahamas’ artistic culture in is purest form. His willingness to share his knowledge and experience and encourage the exploration of individual artistic voices within that space and many others has made him the cherished mentor and community builder that he is today. 

Antonius Roberts, a visionary sculptor and advocate for art education, has left an indelible mark on the Bahamian art scene. His iconic installations and public artworks have transformed spaces and communities, elevating the importance of art in public dialogue. Roberts's dedication to nurturing the next generation of artists is truly commendable. As the founding curator of The Central Bank Art program and art gallery, coordinator of the FinCo Annual Summer Art program, member of the founding board of Directors for National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, and the president of Transforming Spaces, he has provided countless opportunities for young artists to showcase their work and connect with the wider artistic community. Incubator for Collaborative Expression (ICE) is his most recent contribution towards the further development of a most vibrant creative art community. He also has had the great opportunity to work as the Cultural Advisor to Disney on the Light House Project since 2019. Through mentorship, Roberts has nurtured the artistic spirit within emerging talents, imparting invaluable wisdom and helping them navigate the complex art world. Both John Cox and Antonius Roberts exemplify the essence of mentorship. They have invested their energy and expertise into shaping the artistic landscape of The Bahamas, leaving an enduring impact on countless artists. Their commitment to nurturing young talent is rooted in a genuine belief in the transformative power of art. They recognize that by supporting emerging artists, they can create a legacy that will continue to flourish and inspire future generations. 

"Love of Country" serves as a heartfelt tribute to the enduring love that John Cox and Antonius Roberts have for The Bahamas and their dedication to honoring its culture through art. As you immerse yourself in this exhibition, you will witness their remarkable artistic expressions and feel the profound impact that a love of country has had on their creative journeys. This celebration of love, culture, and inspiration invites all visitors to explore their own connection to their homeland, to find inspiration in the stories and traditions that shape them, and to contribute their own love to the artistic tapestry of their respective communities. 

Written by Alexandria Robinson 

Photography and Video by Reagan M Kemp