Akilah Watts born in 1996, is a Barbadian Contemporary Artist who skillfully captures the essence of the black Barbadian experience. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree obtained in 2017, Watts embarked on a remarkable artistic journey, showcasing her versatile talent across various mediums. Her captivating works have been exhibited both locally in Barbados and internationally in cities such as New York, San Francisco, Miami, and more. Notably, she participated in the esteemed Prizm Art Fair in 2017 and hosted her first solo show in March 2019. Watts recently contributed to an exhibition at the World Trade Centre in New York, further solidifying her presence on the global art stage. Her artwork has garnered recognition in online platforms including Artsy, Les iles, Good Black Art, as well as esteemed publications such as Easy magazine, M People magazine, ArtLeadHER, and Artnet.

 

Watts' artistic practice is deeply rooted in her personal experiences as a black Barbadian artist. While her focus primarily revolves around her own narrative, she also encompasses broader themes of the Caribbean experience in her creations. By incorporating imagery such as familiar fruits, vegetables, Barbadian folklore characters like Mother Sally, seascapes, landscapes, and traditional fabric prints, Watts aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia and curiosity within her viewers. Her intention is to transport them into a realm of Caribbean art that feels both familiar and relatable.

 

One of Watts' notable bodies of work introduces a captivating character known as the "Acretia." This spiritual entity exudes confidence, grace, and beauty, imbuing those she inhabits with regal qualities. The presence of the Acretia commands attention and invites viewers to delve deeper into the underlying messages conveyed within the artwork. Through this embodiment, Watts delves into themes of identity, belonging, and culture, allowing viewers to engage with the rich tapestry of the Barbadian experience.

 

In her latest series, "Moments From My Island Home," Watts seeks to bridge the gap between the realistic and idealistic perspectives of her beloved Barbados. Exploring themes of identity, belonging, and culture, she authentically portrays her Barbadian experience in its truest form. By incorporating family photos and identification photos known as "ping pongs" into her works, Watts provides a profound insight into the multifaceted layers of her island home.