Global Discovery Program

The D'Aguilar Art Foundation's Global Discovery Program was created to provide travel grants to Bahamian Art students and aspiring artists. The grant contributes to the cost of airfare and accommodations of its participants, allowing them the opportunity to visit museums and galleries abroad. It was Vincent D'Aguilar's hope that these students would share in one of his greatest passions - viewing the world's masterpieces in person - as he firmly believed that art books, magazines, and the internet could not quite capture the impact of the physical work itself.

Accordingly, students are expected to make full use of their visit to an international art centre to view original historical art masterpieces, celebrated modern art works, gain an understand the local contemporary art movement, and meet with artists, art students, art professors and/or curators.

The program accepts three (3) participants per year. There are no limitations to the length of time a participant may travel, nor any restrictions to his/her destination(s). However, the program is need-based and participants will be awarded a grant, not exceeding $2,500, to aid in their venture. The program is intended for the visual arts only, which includes painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture. Applicants seeking to study any outside mediums (i.e. film, graphic design) will not be accepted to the program. Furthermore, the grant is not a scholarship for students seeking to attend school abroad.

ELIGIBILITY
The Global Discovery Program accepts applications from visual art students at the tertiary or post-graduate level. Aspiring artists who are not enrolled in school or have not received "formal training" are also encouraged to apply. However, all applicants must demonstrate knowledge of art, a certain level of artistic development as well as a commitment to pursue art. To be eligible:

  • Applicants must be recommended by an art teacher or established artist.
  • Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of The Bahamas.
  • Applicants must apply at least six (6) months prior to their intended departure.
Upon acceptance, the applicant is responsible for making all of the necessary arrangements for their trip including booking flights and accommodations and securing passports and visas. Should the applicant not use the grant within six (6) months of being accepted to the program, the award will be rescinded and applicants will be expected to return the award in its entirety.

Applicants who have applied to and/or participated in the program in the past will be allowed to reapply. However, preference will be given to first-time applicants.

APPLICATION & REQUIREMENTS
A complete application should consist of the following materials: Application Form
Proposal
Letter of Recommendation
Artist Portfolio (preferably a hard copy, though digital is also acceptable)

Application Form
Download the Globe Discovery Program application form, complete and submit application.

Proposal
Applicants must submit a proposal which explains:
  • Why they are seeking this grant?
  • Why the applicant wishes to travel to a specific location?
    (i.e. Why is it particularly suited to their needs?)
  • What they expect to see and learn on their trip?
  • How the project is related to their academic or professional goals?
The proposal should not exceed 1,000 words and include a detailed itinerary and proposed costs of the project.

Letter of Recommendation
Applicants require a letter of recommendation from an art teacher or established artist. Your referee should submit their recommendation to the program via the methods listed below in the Submission Information section.

Presentation
Upon return to The Bahamas, the recipient of the travel grant is expected to share the knowledge gained during the trip with the program administrators in either a written or oral presentation. The nature of the presentation is completely flexible; however, it is essential the participant establish that he/she took full advantage of the opportunity.

SUBMISSION INFORMATION

Deadlines
The Global Discovery Program operates under a rolling deadline and will accept applications throughout the year. As the program accepts only three participants per year, it is advised to submit an application as early as possible. Applicants who apply after the three positions have been filled will be considered as candidates for the following year.

Delivery Information
Completed applications may be submitted to the D'Aguilar Art Foundation by letter or e-mail. If submitting your application via e-mail, please indicate Global Discovery Program Application as your subject line. Be advised that once an application has been submitted, the Foundation will contact you should you be selected for interview. Otherwise, the staff is not permitted to discuss your application during the review process, except with regards to completeness or eligibility.

Mailing Address
D'Aguilar Art Foundation
Global Discovery Program
P.O. Box N-213
Nassau, Bahamas

Point of Contact
Potential applicants are allowed to discuss any concerns or questions that arise during preparation of the application. For more information, please email Saskia D'Aguilar at director@daguilarartfoundation.com.