Institute of Jamaica, Kingston

Founded in 1879, the Institute of Jamaica stands as Jamaica's most influential organization dedicated to culture, art, and science. It assumes the role of a patron and advocates for the arts in Jamaica, supporting exhibitions and granting awards. Moreover, the Institute serves as the governing body for the nation's museums while overseeing various national artistic and cultural institutions, including the National Gallery, the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica, and the Jamaica Journal.

Sir Anthony Musgrave, then Governor of Jamaica, established the Institute of Jamaica to foster literature, science, and art on the island in 1879. As such, its mission is centered on assisting the government in promoting and safeguarding the country's rich cultural heritage. Undoubtedly, it remains Jamaica's preeminent organization for culture, art, and science.

The Institute's operations encompass a range of responsibilities within each division. These responsibilities include establishing and managing museums and galleries to collect, preserve, and showcase artifacts and artistic treasures (National Museum Jamaica); curating and displaying collections of Jamaica's flora and fauna (Natural History); nurturing the artistic potential of children in visual and performing arts while fostering their appreciation for Jamaican culture (Junior Centres); and acquiring Jamaican artwork for public exhibition (National Gallery).