Artist-In-Residence
The Friends of Virgin Islands National Park Artist-In-Residence program aims to help Virgin Islanders explore and develop their creative talents. It connects people and community with their park, the island's natural resources, and their cultural heritage. The program assists creatives by promoting their work, offering mentorship, and providing work experience and financial support.
Ital Delroy Anthony | Artist-In-Residence 2025
Meet Ital, a Cultural Ambassador, artisan, teacher, and cofounder of the cultural band, the Echo People. Born on St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands, but rooted in his native island of St. John, Ital proudly claims his Taino Afrikan heritage, weaving together the rich cultural threads of his indigenous and Afrikan ancestors. As a descendant of the Taino people, Ital's family history is deeply rooted in the island's landscape, and he honors this legacy through his art, teachings, and music.
From the bush, Ital harvests natural materials and seeds to craft vibrant, thought-provoking art that tells the stories of his people. As a teacher, he shares his knowledge and skills with others, inspiring a new generation of cultural practitioners to celebrate their heritage.
Thanks to a grant, Friends is working with Ital on a book that invites readers to take A Walk In The Bush With Ital.
Kayden Richards | Artist-In-Residence 2022 & 2023
Kayden Richards is an ancestral native Virgin Islander from St. John. Fascinated with animals and nature, he grew up watching hours of Animal planet, nature documentaries, and looking up to his grandfather, Alva Richards who was pretty much an animal whisperer. A love of nature and a passion for St. John and his island heritage inform his work.
As the Friends artist-in-residence for two years, Kayden took photos in the park and acted as an events photographer. In addition, Friends developed and built a new website and worked on two book projects showcasing his work:
- Their Eyes Were Watching St. John is a book of photography and Poetry by Kayden Richards including poetry solicited by him from community and friends.
- Personal Legends - A Visual Documentary Of Virgin Islanders is a project and book made possible thanks to a grant from the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands with funding provided by the National Endowment for the Humanities. The project seeks to honor the strength and wisdom passed down through the ages, celebrating the triumphs and tribulations that have molded Virgin Islanders into the remarkable individuals they are today.