The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority recently hosted its 2023 edition of the Island’s Art Week, which featured an impressive lineup of sculptors, poets, painters, musicians, and dancers. Among these artists was painter, graphic designer, and hairstylist Kwame Delfish, who traveled from Toronto, Canada, to participate in the event.

Delfish, who is of Antiguan and Montserratian descent, has always been passionate about his heritage, and his work often reflects this. He is a leading voice in Canada’s Black community, thanks in part to his collaborations with the Royal Canadian Mint on their 2015, 2022, and 2023 Black History Month coins. However, his involvement in Antigua and Barbuda’s Art Week allowed him to showcase his talents on a global stage.

In an interview, Delfish expressed his excitement and gratitude for being able to participate in the event. He praised the Tourism Authority for creating a week-long celebration of Antigua and Barbuda’s artistic talent and emphasized the importance of having such spaces for dialogue and

inspiration.

The Art Week’s theme of “Culture in Colour” was a perfect fit for Delfish’s work, which often incorporates bright and bold hues. His art was exhibited at The Gunpowder House and the V.C. Bird International Airport, and he also made numerous appearances throughout the festival, including a televised interview on “Table Talk”.

The Art Week was more than just an exhibition of art; it also featured a packed schedule of interactive events for spectators, including art workshops, studio tours, an outdoor movie screening, and over 30 artists’ exhibits at the Boom at Gunpowder House and the V.C. Bird International Airport. The event was a celebration of the intersection between art, culture, and community, and it provided a valuable platform for artists like Delfish to connect with audiences from around the world.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Art Week was a resounding success, and artists like Kwame Delfish played a crucial role in making it so. The event not only showcased

the immense talent of the country’s artists but also provided a space for critical dialogue and inspiration.