The multi-talented Antiguan-Canadian artist, Kwame Delfish, is among artists
whose works will be on display during the inaugural Antigua and Barbuda Art
Week, which takes place from April 16 to 23.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has announced the attendance of
Delfish, a painter, graphic designer, and hairstylist at the 2023 edition of the
country’s Art Week. The Toronto, Canada-based Delfish joins an esteemed lineup
of sculptors, poets, painters, musicians, and dancers in what promises to be a
vibrant showcase of Antigua and Barbuda’s thriving artistic talent.
“I am honoured to be participating in the inaugural Antigua and Barbuda Art
Week, hosted by the Tourism Authority. A week dedicated to showcasing the
brilliant and creative minds that the country has to offer, is not only important for
increased awareness — it fosters a safe and necessary space for continuous
conversations to be had about the impact of art on our community. I believe that
Art Week will be a powerful vessel through which individuals can be inspired, by
engaging with artists, learning more about a plethora of artistic mediums, and in
turn, become empowered to dig deeper into their own creativity — all while
connecting to our rich culture,” he stated
He added that this type of experience is invaluable and critical to increased
understanding of the intersections between art, culture and community.
Born to Antiguan and Montserratian parents, Delfish’s paintings, photography,
initiatives, and interests have always reflected his heritage. Through his work with
multiple Caribbean community organizations and his own Hill Studio – a
hairstyling venture that specializes in Afro-textured hair – Delfish has emerged as a
leading voice in Canada’s Black community. Though his works have been featured
in The Royal Ontario Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, and the
Contact Photography Festival, he is perhaps best known for his collaborations with
the Royal Canadian Mint on their 2015, 2022, and 2023 Black History Month
coins.
Unfolding over seven days from April 16 through April 23, 2023, the inaugural
Antigua and Barbuda Art Week will unite the country’s greatest talents for a
colourful and musical celebration of all things art and culture. A packed slate of
engaging attractions will be complemented by a robust offering of interactive
events for spectators, including art workshops, studio tours, an outdoor movie
screening, and over 30 artists, exhibiting at the Boom at Gunpowder House and the
V.C. Bird International Airport, all around the theme of “Culture in Colour.”
