The Rihanna-founded organization Clara Lionel Foundation and the Mellon Foundation have teamed up for a groundbreaking effort in Caribbean arts and culture.
The organizations have announced their new partnership, The Ripple Effect, which will uphold locally inspired creative solutions and spread extensive access to art in Barbados and the Caribbean. Along with providing monetary support to select local cultural organizations to develop sustainable paths to funding for artists and art-focused groups, The Ripple Effect will also be launched by a new exhibition.
“Barbados is who I am. It will always be at the heart of the Clara Lionel Foundation, and nothing makes me more proud than amplifying Caribbean voices on a global stage,” Rihanna told Complex. “I’m incredibly thankful to the Mellon Foundation for sharing this vision with us by showcasing these incredible artists who are creating work that moves people to think differently.”
Currently open to the public until August 30, The Ripple Effect exhibit in Bridgetown, Barbados’ gallery Caribbean Brushstrokes is curated by Fresh Milk Barbados. Spotlighting pieces by visual artists and CLF fellows Simone Asia, Russell Watson, Anna Gibson, and Ronald Williams, the exhibition illustrates how Caribbean voices have forged the way for artistic innovation and economic growth, with themes dedicated to climate solution, health justice and women’s entrepreneurship.
“Thirteen years after CLF’s founding, our partnership with the Mellon Foundation represents a full-circle moment – amplifying the voices and talents that have always been part of our organization’s DNA, starting right here in Barbados,” said Jessie Schutt-Aine, Executive Director of the Clara Lionel Foundation. “What visitors will experience in this exhibition is the incredible artistry that has always existed here, now with the institutional backing to reach an international stage. This partnership honors CLF’s beginnings while leveraging our years of
proven community-led impact across the Caribbean and beyond.”
For a Rihanna refresh in anticipation of The Ripple Effect, visit Complex to purchase her past albums like Anti, Unapologetic, and Talk That Talk on vinyl and CD formats.
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