By 
A Strategic Shift Toward Cultural Tourism
From November 11 to 18, 2026, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) will host Art Week. Operating under the theme “Every Destination Has a Story. Ours is told in colour,” the event aims to decouple the destination's image from solely resorts and beaches.
The initiative integrates traditional and contemporary art with the islands' architecture, culinary traditions, and natural heritage. By utilizing open spaces, hotels, and local communities, the event creates a direct economic link between international travelers and the local creative sector.
Premier Exhibitions and Artist Spotlights
The 2026 program prioritizes both established legacies and emerging talent:
- E.T. Henry Gallery: The ABTA’s primary exhibition has relocated to Redcliffe Quay, featuring works from over 30 artists.
- The Barracks Gallery: A retrospective dedicated to the late Maria Ross Iztueta (1934–2024), curated by Stephen Murphy and Amaya Iztueta.
- V.C. Bird International Airport: The "Rising Stars of Art" exhibition displays winning student entries, providing immediate visibility for young creatives to arriving passengers.
Public Art and the "Dual Thresholds" Installation
A centerpiece of the event is "Dual Thresholds," a project by Quay Barracks Art Galleries. This installation repurposes 28 reclaimed wooden doors into double-sided artworks that reflect Caribbean landscapes and cultural identity.
Artists such as Dylan Phillips and Heather Doram contributed to the project. To maximize reach, selected doors are displayed in the arrivals hall at V.C. Bird International Airport, ensuring art is the first point of contact for visitors.
Navigating the Art Trail and Curated Tours
Visitors can explore the islands' creative hubs via a self-guided Art Trail. Participants use an Art Trail Passport to collect marks from various venues, including:
- Quay Studio and Art Gallery
- Zemi Art Gallery
- The Barracks
- E.T. Henry Gallery
- Makŏ Fine Art Gallery
- Rotten Hill Studio
- Art and Cultural Village (Julees Restaurant)
For those preferring structured exploration, two specialized bus tours are available:
| Tour Name | Date | Time | Price | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art Trail Bus Tour | 13 Nov | 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | EC$100 | Daytime gallery visits & refreshments |
| Art After Dark | 17 Nov | 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. | EC$100 | Wine tasting & evening visits (Quay Studio, Bay Gardens) |
Immersive Experiences and Cultural Activations
The event blends visual arts with sensory experiences, focusing on the intersection of creativity and Caribbean life.
Flavours and Canvas Taking place November 14 (6 p.m. – 9 p.m.) at Dennis’s Beach Bar and Restaurant, this EC$200 per person event combines guided painting with local cocktails and cuisine. Reservations are managed via the TickeTing app or ABTA.
Multidisciplinary Arts
- Symphony of Colours: The November 11 opening at Redcliffe Quay featured live painting and the Rootz Krokus Collective’s "Story of the Jam Bull."
- Out of the Krokus Bag: Workshops and performances at Makŏ Fine Art Gallery focusing on Caribbean history.
- Art and Cultural Village: Located at Julees Restaurant, featuring Puppet Village and West African mask-making.
- BE (Boutique Experience): A fashion-focused presentation at Henré Designs.
Key Takeaways
- Dates: November 11–18, 2026.
- Core Goal: To diversify tourism by promoting the local creative economy over traditional beach-centric travel.
- Key Installation: "Dual Thresholds," featuring 28 reclaimed doors as canvases.
- Accessibility: Integration of art into V.C. Bird International Airport to engage visitors upon arrival.
- Interactivity: Use of an Art Trail Passport and guided tours to drive traffic to local studios.
FAQ
How do I book tickets for Art Week events? Tickets for experiences like "Flavours and Canvas" can be purchased through the TickeTing app or directly from the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
What is the Art Trail Passport? It is a tool for self-guided visitors to track their visits to participating galleries and studios, encouraging exploration of multiple creative sites.
Is Art Week only for professional artists? No. Events like "Flavours and Canvas" are specifically designed for participants without previous painting experience.
