The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) is proud to present "Art and the City 2025," a dynamic and immersive cultural experience forming an integral component of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival. Scheduled to take place from May 1 to May 11, 2025, this multi-day event will transform the city of Castries into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, celebrating the colourful potpourri of Saint Lucian and Caribbean arts.

Festival Overview
"Art and the City 2025" under the theme Feel the Rhythm, See the Art, Live the Culture, will showcase emerging Saint Lucian artists alongside notable local, regional, and international talents. The city of Castries will be reimagined as a creative epicentre, offering an interactive, cross-cultural journey through a diverse array of artistic disciplines, including visual, auditory, and performing arts.

Event Highlights

Cultural Icon Series: La Belle Kwéyòl: An elegant gala honouring the late Mrs. Teresa Hall, a luminary in Saint Lucian folk culture. This immersive, multi-sensory event will celebrate her legacy through dance, culinary arts, and Creole-inspired fashion.

• Venue: The Pavilion
• Date: Thursday, May 1
• Time: 6 PM

Voices of The Underground – Spoken Word Performances: An electrifying showcase of spoken word poetry featuring powerful female storytellers from Saint Lucia and beyond, with contributions from strong male poets adding depth to the narrative.

• Performances by: WORRRDUp - Sir Arthur Lewis Community College poetry slam winners, Headphunk, Notes, Shyne Savory, Donaton, George ‘Fish’ Alphonse, Raymond Garnier, Khadijah Halliday, and headliner Staceyann Chin.
• Venue: The National Cultural Centre
• Date: Monday, May 5
• Time: 7 PM

Life in Colour – Visual Art Exhibitions: A carefully curated gallery displaying sculptures, paintings, and photography by Saint Lucia’s most gifted artists.

• Venue: La Place Carenage
• Dates: Friday, May 2 – Sunday, May 11
• Time: 10 AM – 6 PM

Jazz and Arts on the Square: Caliente Latin Beat - A lively fusion of Latin and Caribbean rhythms featuring performances by headliners Barbara Cadet & Friends and 4TO Karacas from Venezuela.

• Venue: The Derek Walcott Square
• Date: Wednesday, May 7
• Time: 11 AM – 6 PM

Folk Fusion – Traditional Folk Music Reimagined: A tribute to Saint Lucia’s folk music heritage, blending traditional instruments with contemporary influences.

• Performances by: The Folk Ensemble, featuring some of Saint Lucia’s finest folk musicians. Headliners include Urban Drift creator Ronald “Boo” Hinkson and Augustin “Jab” Duplesis.
• Venue: The Derek Walcott Square
• Date: Thursday, May 8
• Time: 11 AM – 6 PM

Nostalgic Friday – A Celebration of Saint Lucian Musical Hits: A journey through the most beloved Saint Lucian hits that have transcended generations.

• Performances by: Ecuador’s Jazz the Roots, headliners October 4, and closing act Gregory Piper and the Festival Band.
• Venue: The Derek Walcott Square
• Date: Friday, May 9
• Time: 11 AM – 6 PM

Additionally, Jazz and Arts on the Square will feature theatre performances, mass movement showcases, live art installations, and culinary displays.

Ti Tak Sent Lisi – Souvenir and Craft Market: A two-day market where artisans will display handcrafted treasures reflecting Saint Lucia’s vibrant culture and craftsmanship.

• Venue: The Rodney Bay Strip
• Dates: Thursday, May 8 – Friday, May 9

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About the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF):
The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) is dedicated to aligning the aspirations of cultural and creative individuals, groups, communities, policymakers, and civil society towards a collective vision for growth. Guided by the National Cultural Policy of Saint Lucia, the CDF celebrates cultural heritage, nurtures artistic expression, and fosters innovation across all forms of creative endeavor.

Through initiatives like (name the event), the CDF fosters artistic excellence and cultural exchange, contributing to the island's reputation as a hub of creativity and innovation.