Emerging talent on show at next instalment of Artwalk Festival

November is Youth Month – an annual observance that spotlighting and encouraging young adults, while recognising their contributions to society.

For many creatives who may be new to performance arts, the next iteration of the Kingston Creative Artwalk Festival is set to make space for the exhibition of emerging artists.

On the last Sunday of November, Kingston Creative, Red Stripe Flavours, Main Event and the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) will join forces to celebrate the work of these dancers, actors, visual artists and musicians.

Red Stripe Flavours Brand Manager Jodi-Ann Campbell believes the timing is just right.

‘This month’s Artwalk is all about empowering young people with resources and skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world while celebrating the diverse range of creativity among them. Through initiatives such as these, we’re helping nascent creatives step into the spotlight and gain confidence in their artistic journeys. It’s an exciting opportunity for them to showcase their voice and for the community to come out and support.’

What’s in store for creatives?

Emerging artists, innovators and creators will have access to the knowledge and expertise of established artists and business leaders.

Budding artists are also encouraged to participate by expressing their talent at the Open Mic for a chance to win $20,000.

Artisans can reserve a booth inside the Artisan Village to showcase their wares and can also participate in hands-on workshops led by experts.

And, for patrons?

Festival patrons will have several opportunities to engage and network or join the Red Stripe Flavours Paint & Sip sessions, guided by resident artist Daniel Thompson ‘DanThoArt’.

Patrons can also see the art exhibitions of original works by local artists or get involved in a game of dominoes or 'loodi' along Water Lane.

Slated for the Artwalk Festival’s entertainment package are dancehall artiste Pamputtae and Spanish-reggae entertainer Irie Souljah.

Pamputtae, whose real name is Eveana Henry, is a Jamaican dancehall artiste known for her powerful and hardcore sound. She’s much acclaimed and has gained international recognition recently for the Likkle Miss Fine Nine Remix with Nicki Minaj and Spice, among other heavy hitters. Pamputtae is more popularly known for her hit songs like Ride It, It Good, and Slim vs Fluffy (a collab with Spice).

Irie Souljah whose real name is Josep Jordi Grau Saula, is a Spanish Reggae Artist known for his deep spiritual messages and soulful voice. He fell in love with reggae music at a young age and has dedicated his life to the genre. Some of his popular songs include Helping Hand and Kiss The Sky.

‘Of course, no Artwalk Festival is complete without doing our new ‘Hop On, Hop Off’ Bus Tour,’ commented Teisha Williams, Kingston Creative Tours Manager.

‘We have guided tours starting at 10 am for anyone who wants to know the history behind the murals or visit the Tivoli Murals Project, the Institute of Jamaica or the National Gallery of Jamaica.’ The tours start at 10:00 AM and run until 5 pm with registration and online payment made easy on the company’s Kulcha Connect App.

This Artwalk Festival celebrates developing creatives and invites everyone to come Downtown to support them and be inspired by the vibrant murals along Water Lane in the Downtown Kingston Art District.