The St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission for UNESCO in collaboration with the St. Christopher Heritage Society launched an art and craft exhibition at the national museum on Tuesday.
Secretary General of the St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission for UNESCO and the chairman of the Slave Trade Organising Committee Antonio Maynard said that the art showcase was very timely as it forms part of the activities in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade.
“In the planning process of these activities we decided and in fact insisted that an arts and craft showcase must be included in the programme of activities in order to feature and demonstrate through the eyes of our artistes, the strong link and tradition between our African ancestors and our local practitioners involved in the arts,” he said.
He added, “Since the launching of these activities in February they have been able to execute several high profile events to mark the occasion including a church service, a fashion wear and hat parade and lectures by Professors Rex Nettleford and Dr. Verene Shepherd.”
“I am certain that this arts and craft exhibition will serve to deepen our consciousness about our cultural heritage, and create even a wider understand about the importance of our history and the legacy of slavery,” Maynard concluded.
Other noted guests included Grace Challenger-Bird, director of the St. Christopher Heritage Society, Elicia Mussenden, president of the St. Christopher Heritage Society, Creighton Pencheon, Winston ‘Zack’ Nisbett, cultural preservationist, Director of Culture and Hon. Sam Condor, minister of education and chairman of the St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission for UNESCO. Condor said the museum was an historic, almost sacred spot and a fitting venue for the exhibit.
“I believe that this art and craft exhibition speaks loudly and clearly to the rich variety of activities mounted by the Slave Trade Organising Committee to mark and celebrate the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade throughout the British realm that started in 1807. I am particularly pleased that the items of craft that are on display. They are a tangible demonstration of the truly astounding ability and capability of our people, past and present, in creating masterpieces of art, design, drawings, paintings, pottery, photography, sculptor, crochet etcetera. They are of a quality that is as good as any and better than many,” he said.
The minister was of the opinion that the display should give persons a sense of pride and satisfaction when they understand that the lovely and exquisite items which are a delight to behold are done by people of our very own ilk, kind and race.
The art and craft displays remain on open exhibition at the national museum for visitors and locals alike to view.
