Everyone at Plymouth Arts Cinema was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Bernard Samuels yesterday. Bernard was the hugely influential Director of Plymouth Arts Centre between 1971-96 and was responsible for promoting the work of so many artists, writers, makers and creatives in the city for far longer than that. He championed and supported a huge number of people, from early career artists to those whose work was of international standing and his influence on the arts in Plymouth cannot be 0verestimated.
Judith Noble of PAC’s Board said,
“Under Bernard Samuels’ inspirational leadership, Plymouth Arts Centre became a beacon for the arts in the city, and an internationally recognised centre for film and the visual arts. He encouraged and supported the careers of so many artists from the famous to the local. All of us in the city who love the arts owe Bernard a great debt of gratitude.”
He will be greatly missed.
We would like to share this painting of Bernard, surrounded by staff and volunteers at Plymouth Arts Centre. We think it captures him perfectly.
Image credit: The Lenkiewicz Foundation
So sorry to hear about Bernard Samuels passing. I remember very well the encouragement he (and assistant Sandy and Film Tutor Paul Shrian and Mary of course) gave members of the Film Group when I first started attending the Plymouth Arts Centre at 38 Looe Street back in 1973 (at age 14). I recognise several faces (Bernard, Colin and Douglas) from the 1988 picture. It is great that the cinema goes from strength to strength at the new location. I do miss the variety and history of the old place though. Thank you Bernard for the Art and Artists you introduced me too.