The Desmond Fountain Gallery
Bermudian artist Desmond Fountain’s abilities were recognised at the tender age of 6 when he won his first award at an adult exhibition in Sierra Leone. This promising start didn’t grind to a halt and in later life he went on to found the Bermuda National Gallery and hold major exhibitions around the world.
Although not exclusively a sculptor, it is this art which has brought him most recognition. There are distinct themes to many of his bronze sculptures; the female form, children and animals. Fountain’s art is not the abstract but the lifelike. He strives to capture and freeze in time the dynamism of life.
In 2000 he opened the Desmond Fountain Gallery in the Emporium Building on Front Street. A visit here isn’t absolutely necessary to view his work as there’s a liberal sprinkling of it all around Bermuda. Perhaps his most famous work on the island is his life-size bronze of local legend Johnny Barnes. Situated just down the road from the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute it encapsulates the spirit and kindness of the Bermudian people. Another notable example is that of Sir George Somers which stands in the historic town of St George, close to the replica of the Deliverance. Further examples are bronzes of 3 children playing in the fountains outside City Hall, the ‘Spirit of Joanna’ at the Bermuda National Gallery and one of Mark Twain at the headquarters of XL Capital. His work is also found at many of Bermuda's hotels including the Reefs.
In addition to showcasing his own works, the Desmond Fountain Gallery also features the work of other artists. Most of Fountain’s bronzes are made in limited editions of 9 and fetch thousands. The gallery does, however, have some open editions that are affordable for mere mortals.