The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has unveiled an expanded programme for the fourth edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, set to run from November 11 to 18, 2026. According to Antigua.news, the week-long festival will introduce a large-scale public art installation, expanded exhibition spaces and immersive cultural experiences designed to celebrate the country's artistic talent, culture and creative industries.
The announcement was made during an official media launch at Quay Studio in historic Redcliffe Quay, where tourism officials, artists and invited guests received a preview of this year's programme.
Among the headline attractions is "Dual Thresholds," an innovative public art exhibition developed by Quay Barracks Art Galleries. The project transforms reclaimed wooden doors into original works of art inspired by the people, landscapes, history and culture of Antigua and Barbuda. The installation will feature 28 freestanding, double-sided doors created by local artists. It will make its debut during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in early November before opening to the wider public during Art Week.
At the launch, ABTA Chief Marketing Officer Charmaine Spencer and visual artist Dylan Phillips unveiled two of the brightly painted doors that will form part of the exhibition, including works by Phillips and acclaimed Antiguan artist Heather Doram.
Spencer said the festival continues to evolve in response to growing demand from travellers seeking authentic cultural experiences. "Today's visitors are looking for authentic experiences that allow them to engage and participate rather than simply observe. Antigua and Barbuda Art Week offers those opportunities by connecting visitors directly with our artists, our culture and our communities," she said.
Another major feature of this year's programme is a retrospective exhibition celebrating the life and artistic legacy of the late Maria Ross Iztueta (1934–2024). The exhibition, to be staged at The Barracks Gallery, was announced by curator Stephen Murphy alongside the artist's daughter, Amaya Ross. Murphy described Ross Iztueta as one of Antigua and Barbuda's most influential artists and said the exhibition will introduce her work to new audiences while honouring her lasting contribution to the country's creative landscape.
Returning favourites and new additions will further broaden this year's festival. The programme includes Art in the Quay, the Art and Cultural Village, Meet the Artist sessions at galleries and studios, and the popular Art Trail. New to this edition is an Art Trail Passport designed to encourage visitors to explore multiple exhibition venues. Additional highlights include Flavours & Canvas — an immersive experience combining culinary arts and painting — the live Art Battle competition, fashion showcases and a variety of exhibitions.
Guests at the launch also viewed the premiere of the first Meet the Artist promotional video featuring Heather Doram and enjoyed a dub poetry performance by O'dane Doyley, inspired by this year's campaign theme: "Every Destination Has a Story. Ours is Told in Colour." Visual artists Emile Hill, Stephen Murphy and Dylan Phillips used the occasion to encourage fellow creatives to participate in this year's festival.
Marketing Communications Manager Maria Blackman, who chairs the Art Week organising committee, said planning is now entering its next phase. "We are now beginning our journey to Art Week in November. Over the coming months, we will introduce participating artists, announce additional experiences and continue working with partners across the creative, tourism and business sectors to make this year's event even bigger," she said.
The Tourism Authority's Call for Artists remains open until July 30 for those wishing to participate in the 2026 festival. Businesses, community organisations and sponsors are also being invited to support the event. As part of the Dual Thresholds project, the Authority is seeking donations of suitable reclaimed wooden doors for participating artists to transform into public artworks.
Organisers say the initiative is expected to become one of the signature visual attractions of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, leaving a lasting artistic legacy for residents and visitors alike. Additional events and participating artists will be announced in the months ahead.
