Creativity took centre stage recently at the Sandals Resorts corporate office in Montego Bay, as team members transformed the company’s parking lot into a vibrant canvas of expression at the fourth staging of Project Art (P.ART).

Launched in 2016 by members of the art society, an initiative of EDGE, the resort chain’s corporate office sports and social club, P.ART was created to provide a space for creatives within the organisation to showcase their talents across a variety of mediums. After a successful staging in 2023, this year’s event continued that tradition, offering team members the opportunity to express themselves and connect through the arts.

Joleen Grant, senior manager of design services and co-founder of the event, shared her enthusiasm about the initiative’s reboot.

 “I think it’s important for creatives to know that their expression is valued and for persons to see what we do outside of our day-to-day roles. We are not one-dimensional, and art tells a lot about you. Whether you are the artist sharing or a team member or friend appreciating it, it brings everyone closer” 

Team members were invited to submit their art under both a general category and an optional special category dubbed ‘Your Caribbean’, which encouraged them to interpret and express what the phrase meant to them. The exhibition featured a wide array of entries from digital illustrations and photography to poetry, deejaying, soap and candle making, cake baking, mixed media pieces, and so much more.

Each piece reflected the individuality and vision of the artists, giving attendees the opportunity to see their colleagues in new and thought-provoking ways.

Photographer Alex Campbell, from the procurement division, stole the show with his striking images capturing Jamaican landscapes, architecture and people, and amassed a steady crowd of admirers. The exhibition, which was judged by a panel, saw Alex taking home the Blue Mahoe Award for his interpretation of the special category. 

“I didn’t think I’d feel like this. I was nervous to share but I was told that my installation was appreciated by so many people. This was my first time displaying my photography and I was really excited to tell everyone about it. After seeing the reception, I am definitely going to put more effort into pursuing this,” shared an elated Campbell.

Throughout the afternoon, team members expressed their appreciation for the art and crafts exhibited and management trainee Kevin Wisdom was eager to share his thoughts about the event. 

“The art show was an incredible experience. It was my first time attending the showcase, and I can say it exceeded my expectations. The pieces on display were not only unique and creative but also visually striking. I believe events like this are valuable to us because we get the opportunity to build rapport with our colleagues and to be inspired.” 

The exhibition, which was considered a massive success by artists and attendees alike, continues to affirm the importance of enhancing the team member experience and the need for meaningful and inspiring outlets for expression.