We are saddened to hear of the passing of Bahamian artist Kendal Hanna (1936-2024). Here we share tributes by The Current: Baha Mar Gallery & Art Center and Tern Gallery.

The Current: Baha Mar Gallery & Art Center:  It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kendal Hanna, a revered figure in the Bahamian art community. Born in Nassau in 1936, Hanna emerged as one of the earliest abstract expressionists in The Bahamas. His journey in art began with figurative works, eventually evolving into abstract and self-referential pieces that he described as his “subconscious mind expressing itself on the canvas.” Despite the challenges he faced, including caring for his ailing mother and never attending art school, Hanna’s passion for art never waned.

Hanna’s career was marked by significant exhibitions, including his first in 1992 in Nassau and a major retrospective at The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas in 2011. His influence extended beyond his paintings, inspiring many with his dedication and resilience. Kendal Hanna’s legacy will live on through his vibrant works and the profound impact he had on Bahamian art. He will be deeply missed.

Tern Gallery: We are all profoundly saddened once again by the loss of another giant in our Bahamian art community, the great Kendal Hanna.

Kendal Hanna (b. 1936) is revered as the pioneer of abstract expressionism in The Bahamas. Though we value his undeniable mark on Bahamian visual culture, we will miss our friend and sage.

Hanna was an ever-present and adept conversationalist who kept up to date with the movements of all artists and the art community. He enjoyed engaging in deep and searching dialogue with whomever was curious and serious, a visit to his studio was always a joy and a masterclass. He spoke with generosity in his low and distinct voice, and he treated emerging artists with due respect and welcomed all into the fold. The younger artists who were inspired by him and who learned under his generous tutelage are too many to count.

As we share memories about Kendal, we all centre on his material brilliance and ability to communicate complex emotion through deceivingly simple gestures. We remember his warmth, his friendship and his genius. You will be missed, Kendal.

Rest in perfect peace.

Sources: https://www.facebook.com/the.current.art and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066584987172

[Photo above by Melissa Alcena (detail shown).]