This fall, Antigua and Barbuda is poised to transform into a vibrant hub of creativity, solidifying its status as a burgeoning Caribbean art capital. From November 26 to December 2, 2025, the twin-island nation will host the third edition of its highly anticipated Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, themed “Culture in Colour.” This landmark event, spearheaded by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) in collaboration with the Department of Culture, promises an immersive celebration of visual arts, fashion, music, dance, spoken word, and culinary delights, attracting international attention and local acclaim.
A Strategic Vision for Cultural Tourism
Antigua and Barbuda’s ascent as an art destination is not accidental but a deliberate strategy to enrich its tourism offerings beyond its famed 365 beaches. The ABTA is actively spotlighting the nation’s heritage, culture, and arts to draw visitors seeking profound, experiential journeys. Colin C. James, CEO of the ABTA, emphasizes that Art Week is an “invitation to immerse yourself in the creativity, culture, and stories that make our twin-islands unique”. This initiative aims to weave art and culture into the very fabric of the visitor experience, positioning the islands as a dynamic and multifaceted Caribbean destination. The theme “Culture in Colour” itself speaks to the diverse expressions and vibrant spirit of the nation, a metaphor for its rich identity and the kaleidoscopic nature of its artistic output.
A Spectrum of Talent on Display
Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025 will feature an expansive showcase with over fifty visual artists, designers, performers, and artisans. The event will bring together acclaimed local talents such as Heather Doram, Mark Brown, Makŏ Williams, Emile Hill, Gilly Gobinet, and Jan Farara, alongside emerging voices from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies’ Fine Arts and Creative Studies Department, presenting an exhibition titled “Vernacular”. A poignant retrospective at Barracks Studio in Redcliffe Quay will pay tribute to late Antiguan art legends like E.T. Henry, Frank Walters, and Jill Walker, bridging past and present creative legacies. International participation, including artists from Canada, the US, and neighbouring Caribbean islands like Nevis, will foster vital cultural exchange and broaden the islands’ global artistic dialogue.
Immersive Experiences Beyond the Gallery Walls
This year’s Art Week is designed to be its most immersive edition yet, with over fifteen curated events activating spaces across the islands, from historic quays to the airport terminals. The festival opens on November 26 at Redcliffe Quay with a grand celebration featuring live art demonstrations and musical performances. Attendees can anticipate the “ZOIGE” fashion show by Antiguan designer Garrett Javan, live music and dance at “Rhythm and Vibes,” and interactive art and culinary events like “Canvas and Cocktails” and “Mandalas and Mojitos”. Art and Culture Bus Tours will guide visitors through scenic landscapes to discover hidden studios and artisan workshops, offering intimate connections with creators and their inspirations. A central panel discussion, “The Future of Caribbean Creativity,” will gather leading cultural practitioners to explore the evolving landscape of the region’s creative industries.
Antigua and Barbuda’s Ascendancy on the Global Art Stage
Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is more than just a festival; it’s a strategic move to elevate the nation’s cultural profile and economic standing. By showcasing its rich artistic talent, the event aims to boost tourism numbers, encourage off-season visits, and attract a new demographic of cultural tourists. The initiative directly supports local artists by providing a platform for their work and fostering connections that can lead to greater recognition and commercial success. Furthermore, Art Week presents an opportunity for art enthusiasts to invest in emerging talents, recognizing art as a potential asset with appreciating value. The widespread activation of public spaces, from V.C. Bird International Airport to local galleries, transforms the entire destination into a living canvas, offering an unparalleled cultural immersion.
A Vibrant Future for Caribbean Art
The third edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week signifies a growing commitment to nurturing its creative economy and reinforcing its identity as a vibrant cultural centre in the Caribbean. By blending heritage with contemporary innovation, the event not only celebrates the islands’ artistic soul but also contributes to a broader movement that strengthens national pride and promotes sustainable development through culture. As the islands continue to fill their event calendars with such rich cultural offerings, they are undoubtedly painting a bright future, one that firmly establishes them as a key player in the global art conversation.