NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Angelika Wallace-Whitfield says her bold work for a restaurant soon to open its doors draws on Bahamian and Latin influences to connect local nature with the lively spirit of the original location in Chicago.
Having established herself as one of The Bahamas’ best-known muralists, Angelika Wallace-Whitfield was an obvious choice for Carnivale Bahamas as it seeks to partner with Bahamians to bring its anticipated Paradise Island Latin-fusion restaurant to life.Angelika has spent the last half a decade carving out a niche in the country’s vibrant and competitive visual arts landscape, and her sweeping murals that often incorporate local flora and fauna can be spotted all over the country.
The experienced artist said that she relished an opportunity to challenge herself and push her creative boundaries on the Carnivale project.
“The artwork for this mural is super colourful and energetic,” she said reflecting on the painting, which brings together a range of bright hues as part of one cohesive and stunning piece. This is one of the more expansive palettes I’ve used, as my murals have tended to keep a monochromatic theme.
“I wanted to pull on botanicals we see around the Bahamas and that exist in the property’s landscaping such as banana leaves, palm leaves, sea grape leaves, crotons and inject the liveliness that exists in Carnivale’s Chicago location.”Angelika’s work will also feature in the interior of the restaurant, but with a somewhat different feel that gives a nod to the original venue.
“We decided to pull on the pinks, purples, yellows and oranges from the exterior, she said, “using them to create something that paid homage and leaned into the mural on the Chicago location’s exterior, characterized by flowers and gradients.”
Carnivale first opened its doors in Chicago in 2005, and the restaurant has been enamoring guests ever since with its dining and vibrant atmosphere.
Its new Paradise Island location, which is slated to act as a cornerstone business in the redeveloped Hurricane Hole Superyacht Marina, will meld the charm of Carnivale and its ethos with local Bahamian flavour and offerings.
Bill Marovitz, co-owner of Carnivale, said Angelika’s piece represents that very spirit of Carnivale Bahamas.
“Through and through, we want a restaurant and a space that is representative, not only of Carnivale and its history and essence but also of The Bahamas and its people,” he said. “At every turn, we want diners to feel that fusion of cultures.”
Co-owner Jerry Cataldo also noted that the intention is to ensure that Bahamian elements go beyond the surface level and are deeply ingrained within the restaurant’s development.
“We also want to ensure that we are finding opportunities to bring in local insights at every step throughout the project,” he said. “So, we’re very excited to be able to work with talented Bahamians like Angelika to bring our vision to life.”
Angelika said she’s proud to have been able to be a part of the process and to leave her own mark on what she believes will be a unique and incredible addition to Nassau and Paradise Island’s restaurant scene.
“I’m really excited for their opening,” she said. “The location itself and property are incredible. It’s an amazing spot to watch the sunset over the water.
“And the sneak peeks I’ve seen from the menu look so good. It’s definitely going to be a one of a kind spot in Nassau.”
Loading ...
