Kittitian Teenager Awarded Top Prizes in Eastern Caribbean Art Competition

The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission recently concluded its inaugural Watt’s Art Sustainable Energy Art Contest, a pioneering initiative designed to engage the youth of its member states in critical thinking about sustainability through the expressive medium of art. This competition sought to not only promote awareness of sustainable energy practices but also to foster creativity and innovation in communicating complex environmental issues. The contest attracted a diverse array of submissions, with twenty-one entries received from eight participating Member States, showcasing the burgeoning artistic talent and growing environmental consciousness within the OECS region. The submissions were meticulously evaluated based on their artistic merit, originality, and effective integration of sustainability themes.

The Watt’s Art contest emphasized the crucial role of renewable energy in mitigating the impacts of climate change, challenging young artists to visualize the potential of sustainable solutions. The artworks explored various facets of this theme, ranging from the technical aspects of renewable energy technologies to their broader societal and environmental implications. Among the standout pieces was “Lady Solar,” a compelling depiction of a superhero dedicated to promoting energy conservation, exemplifying the power of art to inspire positive change. The diverse range of artistic expressions reflected the unique perspectives and cultural contexts of the participating artists, enriching the overall dialogue around sustainability.

The OECS Commission recognized the outstanding achievements of the young artists through a series of awards, acknowledging their creative contributions to promoting sustainable energy awareness. Iyondel Williams, an 18-year-old artist from Grenada, secured the coveted first-place prize, demonstrating exceptional artistic skill and a profound understanding of sustainability concepts. Rianna Heylinger, also 18, from St. Kitts and Nevis, claimed the second-place prize, while 16-year-old Nikira Sylvester from Grenada secured the third-place award. These talented young artists not only received recognition for their work but also valuable technology prizes that will further support their artistic pursuits.

In addition to the top three prizes, the contest also featured a People’s Choice Award, which was determined through public voting. This award went to Jaquori Isaac, an 18-year-old artist from St. Kitts and Nevis, whose artwork resonated deeply with the audience. This inclusive approach allowed the public to actively participate in celebrating the artistic talents of the region and further amplified the message of sustainable energy. The People’s Choice Award highlighted the importance of engaging broader communities in the conversation around sustainability, recognizing that collective action is essential for achieving meaningful progress.

The impact of the Watt’s Art contest extends beyond the individual recognition of the winners. The top twelve artworks selected from the competition will be prominently featured in the 2025 OECS Sustainable Energy Calendar, providing a platform for these young artists to share their vision with a wider audience. The calendar will serve as a tangible reminder of the importance of sustainable energy practices and inspire individuals to adopt more environmentally responsible behaviors in their daily lives. This initiative further underscores the OECS Commission’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and empowering youth to become agents of change.

The Watt’s Art Sustainable Energy Art Contest exemplifies the power of art to inspire, educate, and mobilize communities around critical environmental issues. By providing a platform for young artists to express their creativity and engage with the complex challenges of sustainability, the OECS Commission is fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious leaders. This initiative not only celebrates artistic talent but also promotes critical thinking, fosters dialogue, and inspires action towards a more sustainable future for the OECS region. The success of the inaugural contest sets the stage for future editions, further solidifying the role of art as a powerful tool for driving positive change in the Caribbean.