By: Jermaine Cruickshank
I took a trip to an island in the southland—Art Island—where music, art and mouthwatering food came together to transport you into a space of pure creative energy and beauty.
From the moment you boarded the free shuttle courtesy Go Driver, the experience began. Smooth rides, welcoming smiles at the entrance, and a vibrant yellow-clad team set the tone. Before even hitting the main area, a coconut vendor greeted you with ice-cold coconut water, while the scent of freshly made bake and shark and other local favourites pulled you straight into the food zone.
Naparima Girls’ High School was completely transformed into an island oasis, led by visual arts teacher Sophie Mitchell and a dedicated team of teachers. Art Island committee member Simone Baboolal credited the full support of Principal Karen Bally for making it all possible.
Inside, the student art displays were next level. From detailed 3D pieces like the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and cultural scenes, to standout work by Emily Atwarie, who topped the 2025 CXC Regional Merit List in CAPE Art—along with Sadie Ramsaran and Kailyn Dyaanand, the exhibition was creative, immersive and worth the visit.
The vibes didn’t stop there. Performances by Joshua “The Pan Man” Regrello, Freetown Collective, South Star Christo, Nishard M and Earphaan Alves kept the energy high, with patrons fully locked in. And yes, you know when women are in-charge, because everything started on time.
Safe to say, South is love—and Art Island proved it.
