Cayo Levantado Resort launches first Atelier Yubarta Artist Residency

Santa Bárbara de Samaná.- Cayo Levantado Resort has launched the first edition of Atelier Yubarta, an artistic and artisan residency program created through a collaboration between Piñero and the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Culture.

The initiative aims to establish Cayo Levantado as a space for contemporary artistic creation connected to the island’s ecosystem, Dominican cultural heritage and surrounding communities.

Following a national selection process launched in July, the jury chose Nina Francesca Castillo Díaz as the first artist to participate in the residency.

Castillo Díaz, a visual artist, designer and interdisciplinary craftswoman from Santiago de los Caballeros, explores the relationship between nature, marine biodiversity and Dominican cultural identity. Her work includes wearable art, watercolor miniatures and handcrafted pieces using materials recovered from the coast.

During her 8- to 12-week residency, Castillo Díaz will receive accommodation, a workspace, production materials and technical support. She will also develop at least one activity involving the local community, students or resort guests.

The program will conclude with a hybrid exhibition, both in person and digitally. The artist will retain commercial rights to the works created during the residency, while three pieces will be donated to Piñero’s permanent art collection.

The resort said Atelier Yubarta is intended to become a platform for contemporary creation while promoting cultural identity, environmental awareness and connections with local communities.

Cayo Levantado Resort, located on an island in Samaná Bay, operates as a five-star all-inclusive property with 218 rooms and villas. Its sustainability initiatives include renewable energy, waste management and the use of native landscaping, while incorporating local designers, architects and suppliers into its operations.