Arianna Holligan, at age 22, is one of Barbados’ younger artists who is carving out a name for herself in the artistic world.
She is well-known for her distinctive work in acrylic and mixed media, defined by the genre of abstract realism. Deeply inspired by femininity and the natural world, Arianna’s paintings reflect both a personal and cultural narrative that highlights quiet strength and draws from her Caribbean heritage. Her aspiration is for her work to offer moments of stillness and escape. Her most recent artistic endeavours have been creating transparent canvas paintings; a visually intriguing concept in which her artworks appear to delicately float on their canvas.
Arianna’s pieces have resonated with collectors both regionally and internationally, many of whom have expressed a deep personal connection to her work.
A creative since childhood, she developed a deep love for art from the age of 13. Fueled by her passion for art and an innate drive to create, she made the decision in 2022 to pursue art professionally, and has exhibited in galleries and art shows across Barbados.
In 2023, she was awarded the People’s Choice Award for Best Painting by an Established Artist, at the prestigious Carmichael Exhibition, hosted by the Gallery of Caribbean Art, Speightstown, St Peter. She has also exhibited internationally in the “Art Evolution” exhibition at Medina Art Gallery in Rome, Italy. In April last year, she hosted her first solo show which she titled, “The Creation of Eve.”
Arianna, who recently acquired a new studio space in Welches, St Michael, has made it possible for art lovers to view her creations as she sends out the invitation for others to see how she has found a way to make art, have fun, and connect through immersive creative experiences. Arianna has also been into hosting weekend art classes and creative evenings like Sip N’ Paints and dessert decorating classes in collaboration with Sugar Danni Cakery. In addition, she has hosted a unique experience called Art Café, which is a self-guided experience where she mimics a café setting at her studio. The items on the menu include exciting activities like sculpting with clay, exploring watercolour paintings, acrylic paintings, and more.
May will be an exciting month at the studio as Arianna hosts a number of themed Sip N’ Paints. She is also collaborating with Sugar Danni Cakery, to host their monthly dessert decorating class. Arianna’s goal with these classes is to offer more experiences for local Barbadians and for art lovers, hobbyists, or beginners to enjoy creating art, unwinding from a hectic week, and connecting with their creative side.
The artist who was recently part of a four-female team of young artists participating in the art show, The Shape of Feeling, held at the Gallery of Caribbean Art, had this to say about the exhibition and her work: “Working alongside incredibly skilled female artists to bring the show to life was a pleasure. We each explored similar themes within our work. Seeing how our theme, The Shape of Feeling manifested into very differing and personal styles was special to see.”
Arianna wants to continue to grow.
She told Buzz, “My future plans are to continue expanding and following my passions. I want to continue developing relationships within the art world, pushing the envelope as it relates to my work, and offering creative experiences.” (CH)
