Antigua and Barbuda is set to immerse itself in a vibrant spectrum of artistic expression as the third annual Antigua and Barbuda Art Week (ABAW) returns from November 26 to December 2, 2025. Under the evocative theme, “Culture in Colour,” the twin-island nation will transform into a dynamic canvas, celebrating the rich tapestry of Caribbean creativity and cultural heritage.
Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in partnership with the Department of Culture, this year’s Art Week promises to be the most immersive yet, featuring over fifty local visual artists, international guests, and emerging talents from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS). The event aims to bridge generations and artistic styles, showcasing the evolving landscape of art within the Caribbean and its diaspora.
A Kaleidoscope of Artistic Endeavors
The week kicks off on November 26 with an Opening Night celebration at the historic Redcliffe Quay, promising live art demonstrations, music, and performances under the Caribbean sky. Throughout the following days, attendees can expect a diverse program that spans visual arts, fashion, music, dance, spoken word, and culinary arts.
A central highlight will be the “Vernacular” exhibition, featuring acclaimed Antiguan artist Mark Brown alongside students from the ABCAS Fine Arts and Creative Studies Department. This exhibition delves into local identity through various mediums, offering a glimpse into the future of Antiguan art. The event also champions young creatives with the “Life in Antigua and Barbuda” Student Art Competition for ages 7-17, with winning pieces set to be displayed at V.C. Bird International Airport, welcoming travelers with a taste of local talent.
For those seeking hands-on experiences, events like “Canvas and Cocktails” and “Mandalas and Mojitos” combine art-making with mixology and culinary delights, fostering spaces where creativity and community converge. The popular Art and Culture Bus Tours will offer guided journeys across the islands, connecting participants with galleries, studios, and artisan workshops on November 28 and 29.
Celebrating Heritage and Future Visions
Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is more than just a festival; it is a movement dedicated to strengthening the region’s creative economy and affirming art’s role in national identity. A poignant aspect of this year’s event is a special pop-up exhibition at Barracks Studio in Redcliffe Quay, which will pay tribute to the legacy of late Antiguan and Barbudan artists, including E.T. Henry, Frank Walters, and Jill Walker, creating a powerful retrospective that connects past and present artistic visions.
In line with the theme “Culture in Colour,” the week invites a deeper understanding of color as both a palette and a metaphor for identity, diversity, and the rhythms of Caribbean life. The event also embraces sustainability through a dedicated workshop hosted by Good Humans 268 Inc., exploring eco-friendly artistic practices.
Fashion takes a prominent place on November 30 with designer Garrett Javan’s “ZOIGE” showcase, blending art with runway design and celebrating Caribbean fashion. Furthermore, a panel discussion titled “The Future of Caribbean Creativity” will bring together leading voices from the region’s cultural scene to explore innovation, identity, and the trajectory of the next generation of artists.
A Hub for Caribbean Artistry
The Antiguan and Barbudan art scene is gaining national and international recognition, with Art Week serving as a key platform. The establishment of the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS), a newly formed institution consolidating various educational programs including Fine Arts and Creative Studies, underscores the nation’s commitment to nurturing local talent and providing advanced educational opportunities. This initiative ensures a pipeline of skilled creatives who can contribute to and benefit from events like Art Week.
Participating venues are spread across the islands, including galleries like The Quay Studio, Fig Tree Studio Art Gallery, Art House, Jan Farara Art Gallery, Gilly Gobinet Art, and Zemi Art Gallery, alongside public spaces like V.C. Bird International Airport. This widespread activation transforms the entire nation into an open-air gallery, offering diverse experiences for both residents and visitors. Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025 is poised to reaffirm the region’s creative pulse and invite the world to witness the vibrant colors of Caribbean culture.