Stone Love, Mento to collide at Kingston Artwalk Festival

Stone Love, one of Jamaica’s most influential sound system brands, is set to rock the Kingston Creative Artwalk Festival in downtown Kingston this Sunday.

Staged along Water Lane from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. under the theme ‘Rewind and Come Again’, the festival will mark National Heritage Month by taking patrons on a journey through Kingston’s rich cultural history.

Founded in 1972 by Winston ‘Wee Pow’ Powell, Stone Love has spent decades defining Jamaica’s sound system culture, evolving from local street dances into a globally recognised brand and becoming one of the most respected names in dancehall and reggae.

The event will also feature a live performance from Earl ‘Chinna’ Smith’s Binghistra Orchestra, while a traditional mento presentation organised by Herbie Miller will pay tribute to one of Jamaica’s earliest musical forms.

Patrons can also look forward to performances from Karbon D Hard 1 and Kass Smith, bringing together veteran roots musicians and a new generation of performers.

Dub poetry lovers will be treated to a performance by JAIKU Poetry, while an open-mic segment will provide emerging artistes with an opportunity to showcase their talent before a live audience.

Beyond the entertainment, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Kingston’s history through ‘Meet You At The Station’, a photography exhibition by Swedish artist Charlotte Mortensson, which highlights the people and stories connected to the city’s railway heritage.

A guided walking tour led by architect Doris Gross will depart Water Lane at 11:30 a.m., taking participants through some of downtown Kingston’s most historic landmarks before ending at the railway station, where the exhibition will be staged.

The festival will also showcase Kingston’s thriving creative sector through an artisan village featuring local designers, makers and entrepreneurs, alongside a food village offering an array of Jamaican culinary favourites.