Royal Caribbean International is offering new opportunities for Caribbean artists to showcase their work to a global audience with the return of its Artist Discovery Program. The program invites emerging artists from across the Caribbean to contribute to the vibrant culture aboard the Star of the Seas, the company’s newest cruise ship, set to debut in August 2025 from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Building on the success of its introduction aboard Icon of the Seas, the Artist Discovery Program provides a platform for up-and-coming Caribbean artists to create large-scale murals and other art installations that capture the essence of the region’s rich cultural heritage. This initiative is set to celebrate Caribbean art while offering artists a unique opportunity for exposure to a worldwide audience.
These artworks will be showcased in high-visibility areas aboard Star of the Seas, including the Royal Promenade, embarkation area, and Suite Sundeck Lobby.
Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer of Royal Caribbean, shared his excitement for the program’s return, stating, “We can’t wait to be awestruck by visionary artists across the Caribbean.” He also highlighted the overwhelming response from last year’s program, with over 140 artists submitting works from 25 Caribbean countries, each capturing the captivating beauty and spirit of the region.
This year, the program will commission chosen artists to create iconic murals that will be integrated into the ship’s curated art collection. These murals will reflect the vibrant beauty of the Caribbean, showcasing everything from its people to its stunning landscapes, providing guests with an immersive experience during their voyages.
Each selected artist will receive a grant ranging from $20,000 to over $100,000 to bring their creative vision to life. The winning artists will collaborate closely with Royal Caribbean’s team to bring their concepts to fruition in Turku, Finland, where Star of the Seas is currently under construction.
To apply, artists are required to submit five samples of their previous work, an artist statement, and a CV. Submissions are open until February 15, 2025, and can be made online through Royal Caribbean’s official website.
