Bajan And Friends

The Queen’s Park Gallery in Bridgetown recently became a vibrant hub of cultural exchange with the opening of the photography exhibition, “Bajan and Friends.” This unique showcase brings together a talented group of photographers from both Barbados and the UK to explore the rich diversity of Barbadian landscapes, culture, and character.

The success of the “Bajan and Friends” exhibition at the Queen’s Park Gallery is a testament to the power of a shared lens. At the heart of this cultural milestone was the vision of Barbadian photographer David Yearwood, whose belief in the power of artistic collaboration turned a simple idea into a landmark event.

Yearwood envisioned a platform where the familiar beauty of Barbados could be re-examined through a dual perspective. By inviting UK-based photographers Jon Ranger and Paul Greenwood to join forces with local talents Hugh Walker and Rasheed Boodhoo, Yearwood bridged the gap between the “home-grown” and the “visitor’s eye.”

His goal was not just to display photos, but to create a dialogue. This collaborative spirit allowed the artists to exchange techniques and perspectives, resulting in a collection that captures the island’s landscapes and culture with unprecedented depth. Yearwood’s leadership proved that when local mastery meets international friendship, the resulting art resonates far beyond the gallery walls.

I was honoured to be approached by David to be part of this international collaboration and to show my interpretation of the theme . I concentrated on displaying work which highlights the coastal beauty of Barbados and its customs , focusing on the raw beauty of the island, from its dramatic seascapes to the quiet, evocative corners of its rural heritage. I hope that my work has complimented the outstanding pieces by my fellow artists, David Yearwood, Rasheed Boodhoo, Jon Ranger and Paul Greenwood.

By blending local insight with a “friend’s” perspective, the exhibition offers a multi-layered visual narrative of Barbados. Whether it is the play of light on a rugged East Coast cliff or a candid moment reflecting local folkways, the collection invites viewers to see the island beyond the traditional tourist gaze.

“Bajan and Friends” is a testament to the power of photography in bridging cultures. and I invite everyone to visit the Queen’s Park Gallery to experience this stunning celebration of Bajan identity through the eyes of the Artists

“Bajan and Friends” stands as a shining example of how one artist’s vision for unity can celebrate the diversity of an entire nation.