A mysterious new art fair called "The Island" is generating intrigue with plans for a super-secretive inaugural edition in the US Virgin Islands this May. Promotional materials suggest an exclusive event for mega-collectors, featuring special water sports activities and rumors of commissions from artists like Andres Serrano and Jeff Koons, with the unusual claim that all sales will be "redacted after the fact."
Mango Tango Art Gallery in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, is opening a commemorative exhibition titled “Gone but Not Forgotten” on Saturday, November 22, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The show honors three beloved local artists—Kathy Carlson, Max Johnson, and Smokey Pratt—whose lives and works shaped the Caribbean art scene. The evening will feature live music by Neko Crush, appetizers, and spirits. Carlson and Johnson, both East Coast natives who studied at the Art Students League of New York, created lush floral paintings and portraits inspired by their Caribbean travels. Johnson also painted New England landscapes. Carlson was a respected educator who taught math at Antilles High School, while Johnson had a career in advertising at J. Walter Thompson. Pratt, a chef, musician, and gallery co-owner, contributed humorous cartoons and played in the blues duo 2 Blue Shoes. The exhibition runs for one month.
M. Lyn Arts will host its first 2026 Art Show on May 9-10 at Mystic Brew in Tillet Gardens, St. Croix, featuring original artwork for sale. The exhibition introduces new techniques, color palettes, and larger-scale works, including storm-themed pieces inspired by hurricanes Irma and Maria, with a shift toward personifying storms to convey human emotions. Food and drinks will be provided by Mystic Brew and Rock City Tacos.
The group exhibition "Virgin Islands Contemporary" is set to open at Salt of the Earth Tattoo in St. Thomas, featuring the work of ten local artists. Curated by Lucien Downes, the show highlights a diverse range of visual mediums that move beyond traditional Caribbean iconography like seascapes and historical narratives. The participating artists, including Brenda L. Cotto and Jon Euwema, explore themes of cultural evolution and identity through experimental materials and modern techniques.