Welcome to BEMA

BEMA IS...

BEMA, the ‘arts in harmony network’, is the organisation for those of us who believe that art can change the world for the better. It is an informal alliance of individual artists, arts organisations, promoters, producers and others with an interest in developing cultural activity as a means of promoting tolerance, equality and education. Though essentially a network whose main focus are those communities that have traditionally benefited the least from available resources, the BEMA family welcomes membership applications from all sectors and cultural groups. We firmly believe that it is possible and indeed essential, for diverse individual artist and groups of artists to work in harmony and to mutual benefit, regardless of social status, or of racial, ethnic or cultural background; and irrespective of artistic discipline or genre, without compromising the aspirations of one another.

The following is a verse received from an anonymous supporter. If you think you can equal or better then please send us your rhyme.

Bringing communities and cultures together
Encouraging people to love one and other
Mixing and blending in every way
Artists alone gonna save the day

BEMA, FOCUS & Arcola Theatre Arts Fundraiser

Flyer design Zofia Walczak  Not too many in the crowd on a cold December Sunday afternoon BEMA fundraiser; but the atmosphere, vibes and energy was red hot. Many thanks to all the those involved each of who contributed without charge: Arcola Theatre for the free venue let of their big top tent - Focus Organization (co promoters of the event) & Fresh Frenchy rapper from the Serifina Crew, the incomparable Emashi African-Dance, BEMA patron actress Judith Jacob and BAP theatre Co reps, Reggae and world music band John Blood & the Highlys, BBC Radio London 1, London Borough of Hackney Olympic & Paralympic Unit, poets and artists: Stephanie Fresh, Cezanne Poetess, Jah Messam & Hyacinth Myers. Thanks also to Sister Doctor Sandra Richards and again to John Blood and Hyacinth Myers for donating their CDs and works of art for auction or sale.  The event raised just under £200 - thanks to all who contributed in any way, in particular to Hackney Council for Voluntary Service (HCVS) for their usual support.