BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - MINISTER of Tourism Hon. Lindsay Grant has described the opening of a local art shop at the Christophe Harbour Marina as “a watermark” occasion for artists in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Minister Grant made this pronouncement, among others, at a simple but significant ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the opening of Dale Original Art and Style at the Christophe Harbour Marina on the Southeast Peninsula.
It was explained that the artwork and pieces produced by local artists would be on sale at Dale Original Art and Style, the first among a number of shops to be open at the multi-million dollar docking facility.
Minister Grant told reporters that the initiative speaks well for the tourism industry in the Federation as more locally produced artwork would be showcased at the Christophe Harbour facility to those within the international community.
“The first that is being opened is locally owned but the products that would be emanating from it would be of the highest quality and all locally produced. That, for me, is the essence of what we want to deliver.”
The shop will feature work from 12 local artists who for a number of years have been involved in creating various forms of jewellery, purses, paintings, brick work, et cetera.
Minister Grant reiterated that it speaks well for the future of the tourism industry in the Federation, while commending Dale and her team for the work they have put into keeping the art form vibrant in St. Kitts and Nevis.
“But in commending them, I must encourage those out there who are young budding upcoming entrepreneurs that the opportunities that would be available over the next two to three or even five years are going to be tremendous, and persons have to get on board because this Government would like to see our people be put first.”
CEO of Christophe Harbour, Charles ‘Buddy’ Darby indicated at the ceremony that the occasion marked a new milestone for his company.
He described the event as more than just an opening of retail shops but rather a “celebration of a community that feels alive”.
“These retail shops will showcase the best of St. Kitts and Nevis to visitors from around the world and likewise bring a global influence to our shores in a complementary way. We are thrilled to have Dale open the first shop,” Darby noted.
The luxury Christophe Harbour establishment and its management have come in for heavy criticisms over the last several months for the slothful movement of the project.
The completion of this shop is the start of long road to completion of the multi-million dollar investment projects, which include the Park Hyatt Hotel, homes and a golf course.
