‘Anciently Awakened’ because the , stream of anciently inspired visions and images which flowed into his conscious mind, surged suddenly, surprisingly and unexpectedly from a place deep within himself. From childhood, Shawn has always been artistically inspired, remarkably visionary, creative and eager to develop with his hands. Currently, Shawn is an accomplished tradesman having worked his way up the Construction ranks from a youth as a labourer, and is now, at 54, a skilled mason. Shawn, also known as ‘Bookie’ is dedicated and focused on family – much of his attention actively absorbed in personal home repair and design projects. Accuracy, skill and efficiency have always defined Shawn’s work in every area but it was on precisely January 8th of this year that a current of ancestral energy began to influence his work.
While standing in his yard, contemplating his next design plan, the crafting of his own customized house adornment, a bright vision of a specific star surged into his mind’s eye. The manifested striking ornament, which the family calls the South Star, was hung high on the south wall of their home and it became a symbolic signal of the emerging journey to come. Thereafter the first icon, a successive stream of ancient visions steadily flowed, one following the other, after each envisioned piece was created. “It feels like I’ve been doing this all this time.” said Shawn, describing the experience.
“It feels very much familiar and my heart is really in it. I truly enjoy what I am doing and am amazed and thankful at where I’m being guided and what is flowing through me. “The deep essence of ancestral and African influence and inspiration is undeniable and I recall it only once, at 20 yrs of age, after wandering into an African Art Shop, whilst on vacation in Boston. I was immediately drawn in, and felt ‘at home’, I was infused with really positive and good energy.” he said, describing the lengthy experience.
It was never an intention or even a thought of Shawn to produce artwork at all, let alone for recognition from the Professional Art World. Shawn says he definitely attributes much of his perseverance, success and courage to emerge publicly, to the unwavering love and support of 15 yrs of marriage with wife Monique, and to the loving support of sons, parents and other close family members and friends who expressed that such outstanding creations from a source of most ancestrally, ancient depth come to light cannot and should not be concealed or ignored.
Bio written by Angela S. M. Dill ~sister
Words From Our Staff
Shawn Stovell was the recipient of the Best Emerging Artist award for the 2025 Spring Members show—an honour reserved for a standout piece from a first-time exhibitor or a rising talent. Shawn’s debut in the gallery has been nothing short of remarkable, and we’re thrilled to welcome his bold and distinctive voice to the show.
Shawn brings with him a fresh visual language—one that skilfully bridges material, memory, and cultural identity. In his striking piece, he weaves together fragments of Bermudian roofing material with symbols of the African diaspora, creating a textured, layered work that feels both grounded in place and expansive in meaning.
The architectural references anchor the piece in local tradition, while the diasporic elements reach across oceans and time, speaking to shared histories, migrations, and inherited resilience. The juxtaposition is compelling—evoking both the shelter of home and the far-reaching echoes of ancestral journeys.
What stands out most is Shawn’s ability to root his vision in materiality. He doesn’t just reference history; he builds with it. His piece feels like a conversation between generations—a structure shaped not just by hands, but by heritage.