Designer Island
CARIBBEAN CREATORS
MOVING IDEAS
THROUGH THE WORLD
Designer Island is a digital platform managed by branding and design expert Tanya Marie. The platform is home to a group of talented Caribbean creatives specialising in various design and art disciplines, with a mission to revolutionise the Caribbean brand.
I began my journey with the publication in 2019, conducting interviews and transcribing stories that echo the ethos, "CREATE FUTURE CARIBBEAN". This also involves researching and thoughtfully developing editorial concepts that align with the vibrant and dynamic essence of Caribbean creativity and beautifully resonates with a global audience, bridging cultures and ideas.
THE NEW WAVE. JA.
WITH CREATIVE DIRECTOR LINDSEY LODENQUAI.
Co-founded by Protoje and Jason Panton, New Wave has solidified its position as a significant event and social media platform within Jamaica, elevating its status due to the dedicated work of creative director Lindsey Lodenquai. Her strategic vision has not only brought to the forefront the depth of talent and innovation present in Jamaica's diverse cultural terrain but has also fostered an inclusive space where seasoned professionals and emerging artists alike can flourish together. Lindsey's commitment to promoting local creativity and providing a platform for artistic expression has truly made New Wave a beacon for cultural appreciation and collaboration in the Jamaican community.
Creative Direction + Design: Kadeem Thomas
Photographer: Wade Rhoden
Styling: Fidge Fletcher
Staging: Courtney Payne
Make Up: Loni Jones
Hair: Sammoy Duncan
BANfIELD, being.
WITH NY BASED ARTIST KRISTON BANFIELD.
Kriston Banfield, a visual artist hailing from Trinidad & Tobago, has made a name for himself within the local art scene through numerous self-curated exhibitions. His dynamic paintings draw inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as the broader Caribbean region and West African traditions. Through a blend of mythological motifs, indigenous folklore and spiritual symbolism, Kriston explores themes of community, identity and the human condition. Additionally, his art reflects on issues such as economic inequality, societal expectations and the complexities of human existence.
Currently based in New York, Designer Island featured Kriston's artistic progression and constant experience of Being.
Curation: Kadeem Thomas
Design: Tanya Marie
Photographer: Corri Latapy | Headshot: S. Simmons
IDLEWOOD CULTURE.
WITH FASHION DESIGNER MARCUS LING.
Marcus Ling, a talented fashion designer renowned for his unique approach to celebrating cultural diversity and individuality through his creations. Infused with traditional Chinese motifs reimagined with a contemporary flair, his designs beautifully reflect his multicultural background and heritage. Currently stationed in Trinidad, he effortlessly tailors his pieces to resonate with the local audience, ensuring they exude confidence, class, and a sense of uniqueness. In this Designer Island feature, Marcus delved into his inspirational journey, the core values of his brand, and shared insights into the future prospects of his design studio, Idlewood.
Design + Creative Assistance: Kadeem Thomas
Creative Direction: Zarna Hart
Photographer: Brendan Delzin
Styling + Staging: Safia Elena
Story Editor: Beth Milne
