Art on the Bay

Art on the Bay launched its first edition on August 9, 2026, transforming the Pier 1 waterfront in Montego Bay into a dynamic open-air gallery. Coordinated by artist Hilroy Bulgin, the exhibition was established to provide local creators with a dedicated platform to showcase and sell their work while encouraging direct engagement between artists and the community.

The debut event featured 22 participants, ranging from emerging talents to established figures in the Jamaican art scene. The collection spanned multiple mediums, including traditional paintings, various sculptures, and photography. Local leaders, including the president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, noted that the exhibition serves as a vital step in expanding the city's cultural identity beyond typical tourism staples.

Organizers and curators highlighted the importance of hosting art in non-traditional spaces to reach families and individuals who might not frequent conventional galleries. Following a positive reception from local residents, there are hopes to develop Art on the Bay into a recurring fixture, potentially occurring on a quarterly basis to support the creative economy in Western Jamaica.