Cheers to Year 5: Artwalk at the Innovation Gallery AC Hotel Kingston

Under the soft glow of the mid-morning sun, the AC Hotel Kingston’s Innovation Gallery became a hub of creativity and culture. Celebrating their 5th anniversary with an Artwalk supporting local and aspiring artists from The Edna Manley School of Visual and Performing Arts and thriving artists from Suga Lifestyle, the sleek, contemporary gallery attracted art enthusiasts, curious locals, and tourists alike, all eager to explore the diverse artistic expressions defining the community. The Artwalk was more than just an event—it was a celebration of the city’s rich artistic heritage.

As visitors stepped into the Innovation Gallery, they were greeted by an eclectic mix of visual art, ranging from striking abstract paintings to stylish textiles and even a touch of culinary art. The gallery’s beautiful floors and high ceilings provided the perfect setting for the artworks to shine. Local artists proudly displayed their creations, engaging with attendees and sharing the stories behind their pieces. Beautiful lighting illuminated the vibrant colors and textures of the artworks, enhancing their visual impact.

One of the highlights of the Artwalk was the diversity of talent on display. Emerging artists, many from The Edna Manley School of Visual and Performing Arts, shared space with established names in the art community. Featured artists from Suga Lifestyle also adorned the gallery with their pieces, including photography, acrylic paintings, jewelry making, and more.

Gabrielle Burgess, CEO of Suga Lifestyle, shared more about her organization and the Artwalk. She explained, “Suga Lifestyle isn’t about sugar. It started as a blog between two friends, and it just grew from there. It became a lifestyle blog that has now grown into a business, starting with my GW Art here.”

Burgess continued, “Instead of doing an art exhibition in 2018, my favorite time of year, Christmas, I decided to open up the opportunity to other artisans. I was getting a little bored of expos showcasing a lot of made-in-China products. Here, each vendor creates their own craft or style for maximum profit. That’s what Suga Lifestyle is about—not just giving them an opportunity to shine, but also offering post-event opportunities, growth, distribution in stores, and brand awareness.”

Discussing the artists at the expo, Burgess expressed excitement, “Last year, right here at the AC Hotel in the summer, we launched the Art and Lifestyle Expo. As an artist, I wanted to find a way to embrace my community of artists in a comfortable environment indoors where fine art belongs. Suga Lifestyle events aren’t just shopping events; they’re experiences. We have tasty bites and beverages from CPJ, and patrons love it. For example, we have chicken bites and a new lychee salsa from Charlavis Kitchen, along with jams and teas to sample.”

Burgess added, “While the focus is mainly on art, envision a food gallery first. You walk inside and are met with fashion and lifestyle products—apparel, accessories, personal care items, candles, and home accents. It’s about uplifting the home or office, really.”

The Artwalk also served as a platform for cultural exchange, with several sections of the gallery dedicated to the traditional crafts and contemporary art of the city’s diverse communities. On display in the hotel’s lobby was a marvelous wedding dress over 20 feet long, used in a performance at the prestigious Edna Manley College by students during the Rex Nettleford Conference in 2023.

In an exclusive interview with BATV, Miriam Hinds Smith, Dean of the School of Visual Arts at The Edna Manley College, stated, “Today, we are representing the School of Visual Arts and including the School of Dance by virtue of the fantastic dress piece on display. The dress, designed by Marlon Tims for a performance, was created by Laura Jones, head of the fashion department and a Senior Lecturer. We work together on projects to support each other, integrating our learning and activities. We’re happy to celebrate with AC Hotel, which supports the art community and provides a central space for artists to meet and converse.”

One of the primary goals of the Artwalk was to support local artists. Many works on display were available for purchase, providing artists with valuable opportunities to sell their creations and connect with new audiences.

As the afternoon drew to a close, the gallery remained lively, with a palpable sense of community spirit. The AC Hotel’s Artwalk proved to be more than just an art show; it was a testament to the power of creativity to bring people together. Attendees left with enriched hearts and minds, carrying not just art purchases or souvenirs, but memories of a day where art, culture, and community converged.

The success of the Artwalk in commemorating their first five years in business for the AC Hotel Kingston promises even greater things for the future. As the city continues to grow and evolve, so too does its artistic landscape, with events like these playing a crucial role in shaping a vibrant, inclusive cultural identity. The echoes of this unforgettable day will linger, inspiring creativity and connection in all who were fortunate enough to attend.