Pioneering the Caribbean Artist Initiative with Royal Caribbean
ArtLink proudly presents the RCL Caribbean Artist Initiative aboard Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas—an initiative designed to immerse guests in the vibrant culture of the Caribbean as they journey through its seas and islands. This initiative aims to connect travelers with the heritage, stories, and natural beauty of the Caribbean through locally-made art.
Works by Bahamian artist Dede Brown in the main dining.
A Unique Guest Experience
Building on the Utopia of the Seas’ journeys to the Bahamas, ArtLink created a unique guest experience aboard the ship that enables and inspires guests to connect more deeply with Caribbean culture. This experience features a curated art collection showcasing works by Bahamian artists, highlighting the region’s rich traditions and natural splendor. These artworks immerse guests in the culture, rhythms, and beauty of the Islands, fostering a connection to the vibrant stories, history, and essence of Caribbean life while celebrating its local heritage.
Carbonized-mahogany wall sculpture by Bahamian artist John Beadle in the guest areas.
RCL Artist Initiative
ArtLink is proud to present its’ newly pioneered RCL Caribbean Artist Initiative for this collection. The initiative aims to foster and celebrate outstanding local talent in the field of visual arts, featuring works by Caribbean artists throughout the collection. A dedicated feature is located on decks 3-5 of all the stairs & landings, where all the artworks were made by Bahamian artists. By transforming the highly frequented public areas of the ship, these spaces are transformed into vibrant and captivating galleries, showcasing the creative works of local artists.
Works by Bahamian artists Dede Brown and Preston Hanna in the special Bahamian feature on decks 3-5 of the stairs & landings.
Cultural Sustainability
As a certified sustainable global art player, ArtLink's sustainable efforts include sourcing art from artists and artisans active in communities in the destinations of the project. For the RCL Caribbean Artist Initiative on the Utopia of the Seas, ArtLink curators sourced art from local Bahamian talent to showcase the vibrant heritage and natural beauty of the region.
Through commissions and large purchases of art, ArtLink empowers these artists, providing them with platforms to share their work and stories with thousands of viewers from around the world. This model provides sustenance and renewal to the local artistic community, ensuring that the legacy of local talent continues to thrive.
A selection of Bahamian artists featured in the collection. From top left: John Beadle, Dede Brown, Angelica Wallace-Whitfield, and Preston Hanna.
Images via Instagram @j1beadle @dbrowntheartist @blaankcanvas @prestonism242
By celebrating local talent and fostering cultural sustainability, the RCL Caribbean Artist Initiative championed by ArtLink, not only enriches the onboard experience, but also honors the vibrant heritage of the Caribbean. As guests embark from their journeys on the Utopia of the Seas, they leave with more than memories; they carry a deeper connection to the islands and their people, making their travel experience truly unforgettable.
Explore more about our unique collection for the Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas and discover the artistry and stories behind each piece.