See The Caribbean Through The Eyes Of Its Artists

Art is reflective of an island’s culture: its history, geography and agriculture, along with the influences of indigenous people, Africans and Europeans. Pieces of work from across the Caribbean create intriguing opportunities to see and experience the region through the creative eyes of its local artists.

From murals to movement and everything in between, here are five bold ways to see the Caribbean through the eyes of its artists on your next cruise.

1. Barbados – Pottery

The isolated area of Chalky Mount, Barbados is home to red clay, which is made into strong ceramics, tiles and bricks when fired. Barbados pottery is an ancient art that gained widespread exposure and was commercialized in the 18th century when ceramic production proliferated to maximize the sugar trade. Not only were pots and cones used to store and ship sugar at that time, the bricks and tiles were used in construction to expand the sugar economy.

This long history of Bajan pottery shaped the island’s art world. Now there are many local artists who use these traditional methods to create striking works that provide fascinating insights into the island’s past, as well as explore the evolution of the medium.

2. Aruba – Street Art

3. Grenada - Sculptures

Off the west coast of Grenada, British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor created a way to experience incredible still life that brims with sea life. The Renaissance man of the sea—an artist, photographer, marine conservationist and scuba diving instructor—is part of the eco-art movement. His work, which includes the world’s first underwater sculpture park, teaches a valuable lesson on how marine biology can intersect with contemporary art.

Grab your snorkel and mask to see the park’s six installations with 65 contemporary sculptures. Each image in Molinere Bay is inspired by local residents, and the artist intends for you to see how human interaction with nature can be positive and sustainable. The underwater sculpture gallery also helps rebuild the coral reef and restore the ocean’s ecosystem with tropical fish and other marine life.

4. Jamaica – Memorial Murals

5. Mexico - Embroidery