Over the past four years, Bahamian Project photographers have created more than 120 high-quality portraits that capture the spirit of the people of the Bahamas.

These archival portraits hold great historical, social and cultural significance as they convey a visual statement about this time in Bahamian history.

The photographers hope that the collection of photographs will inspire the foundation of a permanent National Portrait Gallery.

The portraits tell the story of people from all walks of life throughout the islands– people whose character forms the basis of Bahamian cultural identity.

Many talented photographers have participated in the project, including Dante Carrer, Vado Culmer, Chris Day, Demetrius Francisco, Guilden Gilbert, Torrell Glinton, Rosemary Hanna, Nowe Harris-Smith, Ben Jamieson, Donald Knowles, Scharad Lightbourne, Rashad Penn, Alessandro Sarno, Andre Sheppard, Duke Wells, Ana-Lisa Wells, Lyndah Wells and Sofia Whitehead.

“Each of these photographic artists show their sincere dedication and passion for photography and their abiding love for The Bahamas by volunteering their time on this important Project,” said Duke Wells, the Bahamian Project’s Creative Director and Lead Photographer.

Representing a broad cross-section of the photographic community in the Bahamas, Bahamian Project photographers are committed to similar standards for high-quality portraiture.

Each artist has developed his or her own technical and artistic approach, taking on portrait assignments in their own individual style using lighting, locations, backgrounds and photographic techniques.

For more information, visit the Bahamian Project.

— Dana Niland, CJ Contributor