Sustainability theme reflected in local products at Grand Market
Under the powerful theme “Caribbean Roots, Global Excellence,” CARIFESTA XV ignites a celebration of heritage, creativity, and forward-thinking resilience. Nowhere is this vision more vividly expressed than at the Grand Market, where regional artisans and innovators showcase products that honour tradition while embracing sustainability.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, Barbados, Senator the Honourable Shantal Munro-Knight, had revealed the Festival’s guiding framework, built on three transformative pillars:
- Where We Have Come From: Honouring Our Heritage
- Where We Are: Celebrating Caribbean Excellence
- Where We Are Going: Building a Sustainable and Resilient Future
The third pillar, focused on sustainability and resilience, takes centre stage at the Grand Market’s eco-conscious showcase. Here, visitors encounter a vibrant array of goods crafted from natural and upcycled materials, proof that Caribbean creativity is not only rooted in history but also boldly shaping the future.
“This is where tradition meets innovation,” Minister Munro-Knight affirmed. “We’re exploring how Caribbean culture can adapt to global challenges, climate action, economic sustainability, and social progress, while preserving the soul of our heritage.”
Among the standout exhibitors in this regard is Lorraine Scott, founder of Culture Arts from Guyana. Her handcrafted jewellery, made from locally sourced seeds, seashells, beads, and wood, embodies the spirit of sustainable artistry and cultural pride.
Listen to her explain her process below:
Arinola Fagbemi, representing “Alara Lagos” from Nigeria, shared that their collection of over 20 items is handcrafted using natural fabrics sourced from reclaimed materials and created through traditional African textile-making techniques.
Listen to her share more on the exquisite collection below.
Ireka Jelani, founder of “Roots and Grasses: Baskets of Barbados,” shared that her collection of decorative baskets is crafted entirely from grass and other natural materials sourced across Barbados. She explained that many of these materials are gathered from the lush countryside of Saint Andrew, where the island’s rich landscape inspires and supplies her beautiful creations.
Sylvester “Adelabu” Clarke, a seasoned Barbadian weaver, creates a diverse range of handcrafted items, including wall hangings, table runners, and bags, using locally sourced fabrics such as cotton and wool. With 38 years of experience, he reveals the techniques and insights behind his lifelong commitment to weaving with natural materials.
The Festival’s commitment to sustainability and the use of natural materials in everyday products was echoed throughout various events and exhibitions. Notably, several fashion shows featured innovative swimwear crafted from repurposed fishing nets, along with accessories made from eco-friendly materials. These striking creations hailed from Belize, Panama, Cuba, and Trinidad and Tobago, highlighting the Festival’s dedication to merging style with environmental consciousness.
