The Bermuda Kite

One of the most thrillingly beautiful Bermuda traditions is making a colourful tissue paper kite to fly on Good Friday. The craft is passed down between generations and is so important to our culture that the techniques are even taught in school. There is nothing as magical as seeing a sky full of stained glass window-like kites made from the thinnest tissue paper, string, and sticks, buzzing through the sky on Good Friday. The kite is one of the most charming symbols of Springtime in Bermuda.

Humpback Whale Pod

Spring is whale watching season in Bermuda. The humpback whale is famous for their song, which was first recorded right here in Bermuda in the 1950's. Personally, I'm drawn to the symbolism of the whales' migration to warmer climes, to the loving pods in which they travel, and I just had to depict a mama and baby whale duo rather than a single whale. This piece is my ode to the magnificent and gentle creatures who choose to linger and play in Bermuda's waters for weeks as they migrate through.

Bermuda Honey Bee

The tiniest of creatures can have the most significant impact on our environment and it's so important to protect them from harmful chemicals and pesticides. I used to be afraid of being stung by a bee, but I now marvel at them, letting them buzz around me in my flower garden without any trepidation. If you are so inclined, there are many local beekeepers on the island that you can support. Symbolic of being focused and industrious, I'm so pleased the Bermuda honeybee has buzzed into our collection.

Bermuda Cedar Sprig

So many of you asked for cedar in our design survey! After much thought, I've chosen to depict the new growth of a cedar sprig and the fresh ripe berries. It is this tender growth that turns into resilient wood over time. For Bermudians, cedar is a symbol of strong roots, resilience and strength. I was also particularly excited to cast an actual cedar sprig for this piece as the texture is stunning and nature did it best! My sketches helped me determine where to place the pink sand cedar berries on the live branch.

Coconut Palm Tree

Nothing says "dreaming of vacation" like visions of a coconut palm. I've always wanted to design a little palm and have dabbled with designs in the past to no avail, until now. Thoughts of palm trees are instantly calming, but they also symbolise tough flexibility, the idea of bending without breaking. This gift of nature invites you to relax in its shade with your toes in pink sand and a refreshing beverage in hand. A whiff of coconut and I'm back in the 80's rubbing on SPF 4 Coppertone. Anyone else?