ArtLucaya is a vibrant showcase of Grand Bahama’s professional and emerging fine artists, and this year’s theme, “Steady Sunward,” offers a deeply meaningful lens through which the community can reflect, celebrate, and create.
Inspired by a line from the Bahamian National Anthem, “Steady Sunward” symbolizes the enduring spirit of Bahamians and their collective ability to rise, innovate, and shine despite challenges. It also serves as a fitting tribute to the 70th anniversary of the founding of Freeport, celebrating not only the city’s past but its future as a hub for creativity and cultural expression.
“ArtLucaya is more than an exhibition. It is a cultural movement that connects generations and reminds us of who we are,” said Fatima-Zahra Kaboub, Chairperson of ArtLucaya. “This year’s theme, ‘Steady Sunward,’ reminds us that no matter the obstacles, we rise. And as Freeport marks 70 years, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the island’s unmatched artistic spirit.”
“We are incredibly grateful to Maelynn Ford, Executive Director, and the entire Board of the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas for their support this year in curating ArtLucaya,” she added.
This year’s event will feature the work of 37 local artists and an exciting lineup of programming that blends fine art with live performance, creative workshops, and community engagement. The weekend begins at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, with the Vernissage Opening Night at MOSAIC, where guests will enjoy an elegant preview of the exhibition. All proceeds from this signature event will benefit the art programs of the participating local high schools, making it a night that celebrates both artistry and impact.
On Saturday, April 5, at 11:00 a.m., the spotlight turns to internationally acclaimed Bahamian artist Lavar Munroe, who will lead an Artist Talk at MOSAIC, offering a rare look into his creative journey and powerful body of work. Immediately following his presentation, guests are invited to participate in a paper sculpting workshop with the beloved artist, Del Foxton, whose distinctive use of texture and form will engage art lovers of all levels.
That evening, ArtLucaya moves to The Stoned Crab for the highly anticipated “Starry Night Soirée” – a vibrant fusion of art, music, and celebration, sponsored by Carnival Corporation. The soirée will feature the premiere of “Resilient”, a new work written by Jens Sweeting and performed by fusion band Forces of Nature, along with appearances by the New Generation Junkanoo group, tenor saxophonist Ralph Munnings, poet Shelley Carey Moxey, vocalist Javan Hunt, and fire dancers from the Bahamas Dance Theatre. Expect a spirited celebration and a powerful tribute to Freeport’s creative legacy of 70 years.
“Art has the power to transform, uplift, and breathe new life into a place,” said Chantal Bethel, artist and executive committee member for ArtLucaya. “With this weekend’s ArtLucaya festival, the people of Grand Bahama have the opportunity to experience this power firsthand. It is a celebration of creativity, culture, and the economic growth of our island and its artists.”
The weekend wraps up on Sunday, April 6, with a special High School Art Exhibition at MOSAIC. This showcase invites the public to explore the bold, insightful, and courageous work of Grand Bahama’s youngest creators, offering a hopeful glimpse into the next generation of Bahamian creativity.
“ArtLucaya is hosted annually by the Grand Bahama Port Authority and serves as a platform to celebrate, elevate, and invest in Bahamian creativity. In addition to supporting professional and emerging artists, the event helps to fund local high school art programs and inspires the community to engage with the arts in meaningful ways,” said Sarah St. George, Co-Chairman of the Grand Bahama Port Authority. “We are excited to welcome Carnival Corporation as a sponsor of ArtLucaya this year. Their support demonstrates a commitment to nurturing and growing Grand Bahama’s vibrant artistic community.”
“This is the first year that ArtLucaya will be held in our new gallery home: MOSAIC Art Hub,” said Lisa Codella, Secretary of ArtLucaya. “At ArtLucaya, we believe that engaging with art enriches us all, and we invite the community to come out this weekend to explore, experience, and enjoy the largest collection of Grand Bahama art under one roof.”
MOSAIC is located on East Sunrise Highway. For tickets, artist details, or more information, visit https://events.gbpa.com/artlucaya
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