By: Staff Writer
October 24, 2025
A new Jamaican based art-accelerator, Blaqmango, is promoting their “Give Jamaica, 2025,” which it seeks to empower Jamaican artists and connect them across disciplines.
Katrina Coombs, co-founder and co-director of Blaqmango Consultants, told Caribbean Magazine Plus that their recent initiative “Give Jamaica, 2025,” is designed to “empower Jamaican artists at every stage of their career by providing creative support, professional development, and opportunities for exposure.”
She added: “It nurtures authentic expression through exhibitions, residencies, mentorship, and training, while actively documenting and celebrating Jamaica’s artistic contributions.”
Founded by artists Katrina Coombs and Winston C. Campbell, Blaqmango fosters collaboration, cultural exchange, and sustainability in the arts, especially in underrepresented areas such as textile and fiber arts. Through initiatives like Hybridization 2.0, it connects artists across disciplines, offering financial support, visibility, and community engagement, ultimately transforming the Jamaican art landscape into a more inclusive, dynamic ecosystem.
Coombs also said: “Blaqmango helps artists by providing access to resources, mentorship, and professional development that are often unavailable in traditional art spaces. Through exhibitions, residencies, and training programs, artists gain opportunities to showcase their work, refine their skills, and build sustainable careers.
“Initiatives like Hybridization 2.0 offer financial support, studio space, and materials, empowering artists to explore new techniques and collaborate across disciplines. By documenting and promoting their work, Blaqmango increases visibility and opens pathways to local and international markets. Ultimately, we aim to create an inclusive, supportive ecosystem where artists can thrive creatively and economically, while preserving Jamaica’s cultural heritage.”
Coombs is hoping to receive a strong and engaged response from artists, communities, and supporters, “who see the value in building a more inclusive and sustainable creative ecosystem. From the accelerator, we aim to spark collaboration, mentorship, and innovation, especially among underrepresented artists.
She added: “We’re looking to inspire not just artistic growth, but deeper cultural dialogue and long-term professional development.
“The ideal response includes increased participation from emerging and mid-career artists, support from donors and institutions, and active public engagement through exhibitions, workshops, and talks.
“Ultimately, we hope the accelerator becomes a catalyst for meaningful transformation in Jamaica’s contemporary art landscape.”