The Rodney Bay strip came alive this past Saturday, as artists from around St. Lucia displayed a variety of aesthetically stunning pieces all locally produced. The artistic offerings ranged from fine art to bamboo and coconut craft, making the diversity of products on show and on sale unique must-haves for visitors to the market.
Despite the late start of the opening of the market, a direct result of the inclement weather, artists cozied themselves in their booths displaying their creations and readied themselves to engage the eager passers-by. 14 St. Lucian artisans, including designers fresh off the Hot Couture runway, exhibited their handiwork on the Rodney Bay strip as part of this year’s Artists Market, staged by the Cultural Development Foundation in collaboration with the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.
In addition to the shopping which took place, patrons got an opportunity to interact with the artists themselves who offered some insight into the creation of the final exhibits; thus generating further appreciation for the effort which goes into what is sometimes a rather elaborate procedure.
In typical flash mob style, where the participants gather suddenly in a public place to perform an unusual act then quickly disperse, RADTp: Endedance stunned the crowd with their remarkable presentation. They incorporated two art forms: dance with painting to create a piece which represented music, another form of artistic expression celebrated by the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival.
The Silver Shadow Dance Academy also provided entertainment with a masquerade band and stilt walkers who captured the tradition of Saint Lucian culture in their lively portrayal. Additionally, Gwan Mouvman, a 20-member street band comprising brass and percussion sections serenaded the crowd with its infectious calypso and traditional music pieces.
Artists Market was the last of several activities organised by the Cultural Development Foundation as part of National Arts Festival to create a platform for creative artistic expression. The curtains will come down on the 2014 National Arts Festival with a grand Gala Closing on Saturday May 17th at Sandals Halcyon.
The Cultural Development Foundation remains resolute in its efforts to create opportunities to nurture the diverse forms of cultural and artistic expression that make up the Saint Lucian personality. Next on the agenda – Summer of the Arts.