Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is calling, Will you answer?

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, we can all feel it – fall is here, and winter is just around the corner. For those of us in North America with the travel bug, this is the time it starts to itch. You’re thinking of warmth, adventure, and, of course, culture. Well, I’ve got the perfect trip idea for the art lovers out there!

Welcome to paradise. The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority is thrilled to announce the second edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2024, taking place from November 27^th to December 3^rd, 2024. Imagine escaping the cold and immersing yourself in the vibrant, blossoming art scene of these stunning islands.

From the bold, brilliant hues of local visual art to the rhythm of live performances, this week-long celebration will showcase the rich culture that makes Antigua and Barbuda the Caribbean’s hidden artistic gem. Whether you’re: strolling through galleries, catching a beachfront art show, or engaging with local artisans, this experience will be nothing short of inspiring.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, The Honourable Charles Fernandez, expresses the significance of the event, “Art Week is a platform for showcasing all the incredible talent and creativity developed in Antigua and Barbuda.”

“We are excited to share our culture and diverse art forms with the world – creating an avenue for our artists to shine and providing immersive art experiences for our visitors to participate in. Visitors to Antigua and Barbuda Art Week can expect art presentations by over 20 different artists, who will showcase their creativity at Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, bringing the country’s unique talents to life.”

Amongst the participating artists confirmed are: Visual Artists: Heather Doram MFA GCM, Stephen Murphy, Gilly Gobinet, Kelly Hull, Vincent Pryce Zifah, Maritza Martin, Carol Gordon-Goodwin, Simone Gordon, Wakida Joseph, Anfrenette Joseph, Faye Edwards, Artsy Yaadie (Stacie Shaw), Zoë Carlton, Makŏ Williams, Candi Coates, Glenroy Aaron, Mark Brown, Emile Hill, Dylan Elias Phillips and Guava De Art. Designers: Garrett Argent Javan, Launesha Barnes and Odelia Deazle will also feature within Art Week

Heather Doram, MFA, GCM a leading contemporary Antiguan artist whose work is featured in Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2024 promotions said, “I am really looking forward to celebrating Art Week here in Antigua and Barbuda.  I am elated to know that the artists and creatives will be recognized during this exciting week of activities, and that Art Week has become a staple on our calendar of events. A warm welcome to everyone!”

Attendees of Art Week will also have the chance to delve deeper into various art forms through: immersive art and culture guided tours, art workshops and interactive sessions led by featured artists.

“Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is truly a celebration of our nation’s artists, spanning from young, emerging talents to seasoned professionals,” noted Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Marketing Communications Manager, and Art Week committee member Maria Blackman. “Expect to see environmentally conscious art, fashion from our younger designers, be swept up in our music and dance, discover hidden galleries, experience art through mixology, uncover the beauty of seed work from tamarind and jumbie seeds, and shop for unique arts and crafts. Art Week 2024 will be an awakening of all senses, and we could not be prouder to host it.”

Event Highlights include:

• Schools Art Competition: Launching in September, the competition will be open to artists in both primary and secondary schools, with the exceptional work to be displayed at the V.C. Bird International Airport.
• Exhibitions and Galleries: A range of artwork, including paintings, carvings, sculptures, and installations, will be on display in galleries and public spaces throughout Antigua and Barbuda.
• Workshops: Hands-on workshops led by local artists offer attendees a unique opportunity to learn new techniques, gain insight into the creative process and cultural heritage of the country.
• Art Talks: Engage with artists and experts during insightful panel discussions about the arts in Antigua and Barbuda.
• Live Art Performances: Experience the dynamic live music, dance and spoken word performances.
• Paint Sessions: elevated sip and paints that explores mixology as art and allows participants to get creative through painting.
• Art Tours: Participate in guided tours that traverse the twin-islands, soaking up the culture and taking attendees into homes and galleries of artists to explore their works.
• Christmas Market: shop beautiful, locally made artisan products and crafts, that will make unique gifts for any occasion.

So, why not treat yourself to a tropical getaway that feeds your soul and sparks your creativity? Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is calling. Will you answer?

How to Attend: For more information on the event schedule, participating artists, and ticketing, please visit the Antigua and Barbuda Art Week website at www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/art-week.