The sun starts to set when my Uber stops at Chelsea Bridge Road, on what one could describe as a shy summer evening in May. I saunter to the entrance, my dress clinging to me against the flow of the wind. Smiles and nods of approval set the tone for what is going to be a warm and insightful evening.

After circling the venue, getting lost, and making friends along the way, I arrive at the exhibition.

The title, Where Land and Sea Make Beauty, is stunningly encapsulated in what lies before my eyes. An authentic representation of the island’s agricultural heritage can be seen in the appearance of the soil alone. I tuck myself into the crowd as the Antigua & Barbuda Horticulture Society (ABHS) president Barbara Japal proffers her thank-yous to her team and attendees for making the night special. Joined by Barbuda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Karen-Mae Hill OBE, and glass in hand, a collective sense of awe spreads across our nook.

I feel honoured to be privy to an intimate moment between a group of talented people who have pledged to translate the beauty of the islands. The exhibition is full of depth — encouraging questions and requiring patience to fully absorb the distinct elements that represent land and sea in Antigua & Barbuda.

Originally founded in 1956, The ABHS is made up of nature enthusiasts and was recently established to celebrate the charm that exists over the seas. A cherished community, one of their many missions is to educate locals and tourists alike about the islands’ flora, fauna and how best to look after them. Immaculately put together by Barbara: pink sand, sugar cane plants, and rum barrels stand among the many features at which to marvel. Onlookers are transported — as if the team have taken a snapshot of the islands and placed it inside the venue.

The Dama Deer stands regally at the centre of the display, demanding to be etched into memory. I go home with the image of the deer still vivid in my mind. The Antigua Black Pineapple transforms the visual experience into a culinary one — the island produces the sweetest pineapple. As the constantly peckish person I am, my mind immediately sends a signal to my tastebuds. After working my way around the nook and having a brief conversation with Michael Hunt of Margrie Hunt, responsible for the design elements of the exhibition, I reflect on the momentous planning that goes into a single evening. From my lens, I’ve seen a work of perfection — though the authors of such perfection might feel it could be better.

Translating beauty to various audiences is no small feat.

Tempted by this review to visit the islands yourself?: Visit Antigua & Barbuda