Unbiased look at the Sint Maarten Elections
PHILIPSBURG--Our Creations St. Maarten Arts and Crafts Foundation has found itself a home on Front Street 121A. At this address, no fewer than sixteen artists and crafters are displaying and selling their pieces of art and creative products to residents and tourists. Our Creations Arts and Crafts Home, which is a welcome addition to Front Street's selection of stores, was officially opened by Minister of Economic Affairs, Tourism, Traffic and Communication Claret Connor late Saturday afternoon.
It is the aim of Our Creations to promote and assist local entrepreneurs in St. Maarten by exposing their handmade creations with unique design, such as decorative handicraft.
At the newly opened store, which is located next to Antoine's restaurant, residents and visitors alike may find a wide array in handmade products, gift items and souvenirs.
Among products on sale are the renowned "Lulu's Dolls," handmade by Esther "Lulu" Narcisco, who is also President of Our Creations.
For over 25 years she has been creating different types of fabric dolls. These dolls, which come in different colour body tones, are made with the assistance from Narcisco's husband, who stuffs all the bodies. After clothing the dolls, Narcisco makes them come alive by painting their faces, which gives each doll a character of its own.
Each handmade product that is on sale at what may be called the "Home of Creativity" has its own distinct character. This not only goes for Lulu's dolls and her husband's handmade key rings and refrigerator magnets, but for every item on sale.
Lucy's Creations, for instance, presents a wide array of island traditional wear and Youmay Dormoy showcases a number of his colourful and expressive paintings, among such diverse merchandize as flavoured rums, handbags, jewellery and glassware.
Monica Salome-Simeon is passionate about everything that can be produced from nature. Scented candles is one of her expertise. In her section of the store one can find body products, such as bath salts.
Crafter Jenny Martina loves natural cosmetics. Her handmade soaps are made from scratch with nature's best gifts to soothe the body.
Front Street was partially cordoned off for Saturday's opening ceremony, which included the cutting of the ribbon by Minister Connor and Narcisco. They both spoke some words, as did the neighbour from across Front Street, artist Max Phelipa.
Music was provided by a DJ and Generation New Status STM drum band. Soup and cake were served by foundation members in traditional costume.
Membership of Our Creations Foundation is increasing rapidly. Four more members will be displaying their products in the store soon, it was stated Saturday. It is, therefore, not inconceivable that the foundation would have to look out for a bigger store soon.
