Tortuga Rum’s inaugural ‘Art of the Barrel’ series saw twelve entrants using an authentic Tortuga Rum Barrel as a canvas to produce art. The barrel art could be, but was not limited to, paintings in various mediums, carving, deconstruction and/or sculpture. All entries were to be weather resistant as they would be on display outdoors. 

All thirteen entries will now be displayed at Tortuga Rum locations at Governors Square, The Marquee and the Strand and Arteccentrix at Governors Square. The Sunrise Adult Training Centre and the Mental Health Unit each submitted three entries.

The inaugural series will culminate in an Auction Dinner on 21 December 2010 at The Brasserie where 100 guests will enjoy a three course meal paired with wines and rum from Tortuga Wines & Spirits. Tickets cans be purchased from the Brasserie for $50 per head. The rum barrels will be displayed in the herb garden and in and around the property and will be auctioned off with proceeds going to each artists preferred charity.

The winners of the ‘Art of the Barrel’ will also be announced a week prior to the Auction Dinner. First prize will receive a two week exclusive gallery show at Arteccentrix at a time no later than 1 year. Second and Third prize will receive a joint 2 week gallery show at Arteccentrix at a time no later than 1 year.

“Tortuga Wine and Spirits, are proud to have created the Art of the Barrel series,” said Alex McClenaghan of Tortuga Wines & Spirits. “We have always supported our community and in this competition, have found a way to not only keep Cayman a little greener and add new life to a discarded vessel, but to also showcase the extraordinary talent that can be found here. The moneys raised at auction will go directly to the artist charity of choice.” he said.

“We welcome everyone to stop by all of the display locations and vote for the Peoples’ Choice Award’ and come down to The Brasserie on 21 December to bid on these one of a kind pieces. Our hopes are that the Art of the Barrel competition will become a yearly celebration of our local artists, our commitment to charitable organizations and the beautification of these Islands.”