by Susan Mains, at Carifesta XV

Aside from the host Barbados, Grenada’s visual artists were perhaps the most represented group in Barbados for the Carifesta XV art exhibitions.

For the opening of the regional exhibition on Saturday evening, what a pleasure to be met on either side of one of the main exhibition spaces at Norman Centre in Bridgetown by Kristianne Buxo’s “Surge” on the right side, and John Henry’s “Short Knees” on the left.

And this was just the start. The art-loving crowds milled through the 4 rooms of paintings, sculptures, installations, and photography to find the work of Oliver Benoit, Arthur Daniel, Andrea McCleod, and Asher Mains. Alongside dozens of works of art, Grenada held its own with pride.

The display continues at the Grand Market in the Grenada booth. Bringing pop and vibe to the space are the works of Suelin Low Chew Tung, Richie Modeste and Andrea McCleod with her crowd favourite “Lion”. Tens of thousands will walk past here and have a look on a daily basis.

Also in the booth on display are handmade, crafted items and goods from Grenada manufacturers.

Susan Mains (left) showing selection of Grenada paintings at Carifesta XV. Photo: Susan Mains

The last hurrah during the festival will be the exhibition of Samuel Ogilvie’s short film, “A Syncretism in Kayryouacou,” on the evening of the 29th at Queen’s Park. Along with other regional artists, his work will be projected in a loop on screens on the outside — an immersive experience. Ogilvie first presented this work, which was made in collaboration with Ian Friday, at the Grenada Pavilion at the Biennale di Venezia in 2022.

Local private art galleries have joined the Carifesta XV celebrations and have included special displays in honour of Caribbean synergy. Caribbean Brushstrokes at Pelican Village, the Gallery at Lime Grove, and Gallery of Caribbean Art in Speightstown all have Grenada works on display, showing a true commitment to regional integration.

Although some of these Grenada artists have exhibited in Grenada regularly, and some internationally at the highest levels, for others, it was a first regional exposure. This Caribbean gathering has given our artists the opportunity to tell their stories, and through the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, the facilitation of getting the work to Barbados was provided. The whole team of 45 wore Kristianne Buxo’s and John Henry’s work across their chests on T-shirts when they travelled as a group to Barbados. It made a vivid impression.

Art is a powerful ambassador — just take a look.

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