The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has announced an expanded programme for the fourth edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, scheduled to run from November 11–18, 2026. According to Antigua News Room, the announcement was made during a media launch held at Quay Studio in the historic Redcliffe Quay.
This year's programme introduces several new initiatives, including 'Dual Thresholds', a public art installation featuring reclaimed wooden doors transformed into original works of art. Additional highlights include a retrospective exhibition honouring the late artist Maria Ross Iztueta, expanded exhibition spaces and a growing calendar of immersive experiences designed to connect residents and visitors with Antiguan and Barbudan artists and culture.
Chief Marketing Officer of the ABTA, Charmaine Spencer, underscored the event's tourism value. "Today's visitors are looking for authentic experiences that allow them to engage and participate rather than simply observe," she said. "Antigua and Barbuda Art Week offers those opportunities by connecting visitors directly with our artists, our culture and our communities."
Spencer and visual artist Dylan Phillips unveiled an early look at two vibrantly painted doors that will form part of 'Dual Thresholds'. Those featured doors were created by Phillips and Heather Doram, MFA, GCM. Developed by Quay Barracks Art Galleries, the exhibition will present 28 freestanding, double-sided doors crafted by artists from across Antigua and Barbuda, each inspired by the people, culture, landscapes and everyday life of the twin-island nation.
The installation is set to debut during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), taking place in Antigua and Barbuda from November 1–4, before opening to the general public during Art Week.
Also announced at the launch was a retrospective exhibition celebrating the life and work of the late Maria Ross Iztueta (1934–2024), which will be the featured exhibit at The Barracks Gallery. Curator Stephen Murphy shared the announcement alongside the late artist's daughter, Amaya Ross. "Maria Ross made an incredible contribution to the art community in Antigua and Barbuda," Murphy said. "This exhibition provides an opportunity to introduce her work to new audiences during Art Week."
The broader 2026 programme includes 'Art in the Quay', the return of the 'Art and Cultural Village', open studios and galleries with 'Meet the Artist' sessions, the 'Art Trail' and a new 'Art Trail Passport', a 'Flavours & Canvas' immersive culinary arts and painting experience, the 'Art Battle' live painting competition, fashion presentations and additional exhibitions. Further details are expected to be released in the months ahead.
Attendees at the launch were treated to the premiere of the first 'Meet the Artist' video, featuring Heather Doram, MFA, GCM, and a dub poetry performance by poet O'dane Doyley. Both pieces were inspired by the campaign theme, 'Every Destination Has a Story. Ours is Told in Colour.' Visual artists Emile Hill, Stephen Murphy and Dylan Phillips also addressed the gathering, encouraging fellow creatives to get involved.
Marketing Communications Manager and Art Week committee lead Maria Blackman described the launch as the beginning of a months-long build-up. "Over the coming months, we will introduce participating artists, announce additional experiences and continue working with partners to encourage participation from the creative community, the tourism industry, the business sector and the general public," she said.
The ABTA is currently accepting submissions through its 'Call for Artists', open to artists from Antigua and Barbuda and across the region until July 30. The online entry form is available at www.visitantiguabarbuda.com. Businesses and community partners are also invited to participate through sponsorships and collaborations. As part of support for 'Dual Thresholds', the Authority is calling on businesses, contractors and members of the public to donate suitable wooden doors to the galleries in Redcliffe Quay.
For partnership opportunities and further information, contact the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority at 1 268 562 7600, visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow @AntiguaBarbudaArtWeek on social media.
