The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) has announced the fourth edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week, scheduled to run from November 11–18, 2026. According to Antigua Observer, this year's programme was unveiled at a media launch held at Quay Studio in historic Redcliffe Quay.
The 2026 programme introduces several new initiatives, including 'Dual Thresholds', a public art installation featuring reclaimed wooden doors transformed into original works of art, a retrospective exhibition honouring the late artist Maria Ross Iztueta, expanded exhibition spaces and a broadened calendar of immersive experiences.
ABTA Chief Marketing Officer Charmaine Spencer said the event speaks directly to what modern travellers seek. "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."
Spencer and visual artist Dylan Phillips unveiled the first look at two vibrantly painted doors that will form part of the 'Dual Thresholds' exhibition. Those featured doors were created by Phillips and Heather Doram, MFA, GCM. Developed by Quay Barracks Art Galleries, the installation will comprise 28 freestanding, double-sided doors created by local artists, each inspired by the people, culture, landscapes and everyday life of Antigua and Barbuda.
The installation will make its debut during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), set to take 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 serve as the featured exhibit at The Barracks Gallery. Curator Stephen Murphy made 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."
Additional programme highlights include '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 the new 'Art Trail Passport', a 'Flavours & Canvas' immersive culinary arts and painting experience, the 'Art Battle' live painting competition, fashion presentations and further exhibitions. The authority said more programme details will be announced in the lead-up to the event.
Attendees at the launch were treated to the premiere of the first 'Meet the Artist' video featuring Heather Doram and a dub poetry performance by poet O'dane Doyley, both 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 also addressed the gathering, encouraging fellow creatives to take part.
Marketing Communications Manager and Art Week committee lead Maria Blackman outlined what lies ahead. "Today's launch begins our journey to Art Week in November. 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."
The Tourism Authority has extended a 'Call for Artists' to creatives from Antigua and Barbuda and across the region. Submissions remain open until July 30, with the entry form available at www.visitantiguabarbuda.com. Businesses and community partners are also invited to engage through sponsorships and collaborations.
To support the 'Dual Thresholds' initiative specifically, the Tourism Authority is inviting businesses, contractors and members of the public to donate suitable wooden doors to the galleries in Redcliffe Quay for use by participating artists.
For partnership opportunities and further information, contact the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority at 1 268 562 7600, visit visitantiguabarbuda.com or follow @AntiguaBarbudaArtWeek on social media.
