The inaugural CARICS International Fine Arts Festival takes place Saturday at the Old Hospital in Montego Bay. The free event, sub-titled Affair of The Arts, showcases the work of 20 visual artists, artisans and artistes.

Oniel Cunnigham, promoter of the show, said its main objective is to revive the Montego Bay arts scene and expose aspiring artists. Some of them, like painter Jessica Campbell, are from the tourist city.

“The event has gotten great support from several artists and artisans from not only Montego Bay and its environs but also from artistes all over the island. The CARICS team is grateful for the support it has gotten from several corporate and government entities,” Cunningham said in an interview with the Jamaica Observer.

In addition to Campbell, photographer Bevan Antonio, as well as artists Ingrid Coke and Andrew Duhaney will display their work.

Campbell hails from the community of Paradise Norwood, which has experienced its share of violence in the past 20 years. She said growing up in a tough area and sense of black culture inspires her work.

“As an artist, I aspire not to only create works for the masses to enjoy but also to edify, enlighten and provoke change in my viewers,” she said.

Cunningham said the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission has provided curation and technical support, while the Tourism Enhancement Fund, Apex Car Rentals and Ventura Photos and Videos are joint sponsors.

Since the late 1970s, Montego Bay has hosted several major music events including Reggae Sunsplash and Reggae Sumfest. CARICS International Fine Arts Festival, Cunningham, stressed, adds diversity to the city’s leisure scene.

“This staging marks the first step in establishing Montego Bay and Jamaica. This diverse and unique event will serve as a major attraction and economic booster, giving many another reason to make Montego Bay a must-visit location,” he said.