Royal Caribbean has launched a search for iconic artwork to bring the Caribbean spirit to life aboard its upcoming ship Icon of the Seas.
In the line’s new “Artist Discovery Program,” up-and-coming artists from destinations the cruise line visits can vie to put their work on display for millions of guests who will set sail in the years to come.
The first group of artists will make up the Artist Discovery Program: Caribbean Edition. They’ll be commissioned to paint nine large-scale murals in three highly visible locations on the ship: the Royal Promenade neighborhood, Icon of the Seas’ main entrance, and within the Suite Neighborhood. Each piece will invoke the vibrancy of the Caribbean, joining the collection on board that will include a variety of pieces created by Caribbean artists or that were inspired by the region.
Each artist will receive a grant from Royal Caribbean ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 to see their vision through. Later this year, as artists in residence, the winners will work closely with the newbuilding team to bring their concepts to life in Turku, Finland, where Icon of the Seas is under construction.
Beginning in the Caribbean, local artists can send their submissions starting today through April 4th here. To compete for a spot in the first edition of the program, artists must submit the following:
- Five samples of conceptual work: it must be original and may not currently be published or on display
- A brief artist statement that helps explain their work, inspiration, and other details regarding the pieces submitted
- A copy of their resume
Icon of the Seas will sail year-round from Miami, offering seven-night eastern and western Caribbean cruises. Each voyage will visit Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Future editions of the Artist Discovery Program will be announced at a future date.
READ NEXT: Holland America Line Introduces 25-59 Day Voyages From North America
