Basseterre, St. Kitts, May 28, 2009 (SKNIS): Graduates of the 2009 Potters Class told SKNIS that they were grateful for the opportunity to learn a new skill and many have expressed a desire to use their new talent to promote St. Kitts and Nevis.
Imelda Byron said she was surprised after producing her first craft item in the early stages of the workshop. “I didn’t know that I could do something like that,” she exclaimed. “As the weeks went by, I started getting more and more [interested] and I felt good.”
“It’s been an excellent workshop,” Adeline Webbe stressed, pointing to products she created which included a large mug decorated with fishes, and glazed elephant sculptures made from different types of clay. “I really enjoy sculpting. I have a passion for it … as you can see from my other pieces … and I can see [myself] becoming an entrepreneur.”
Dezra Henderson disclosed “I intend to further [studies] to be honest. I want to go as far as I can. From the response I am getting [from patrons] it seems like I will [succeed more] than I thought. It is really exciting.”
The comments came during the exhibition and certification ceremony held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, last Friday. Ceramist Adam Azaire of St. Lucia facilitated the 13-week course. Minister of State for Culture, Honourable Richard Skerritt, noted his pleasure with the outcome.
“This project is valuable and worthy of celebration for several reasons. The output, the actual finished product [that] can now be sold, and there is also the potential for new businesses to start up,” he indicated.
The possibility of crafting new entrepreneurs is real as Adam Azaire referring to his regional trainer experience informed that half of his students have gone on to use the new skill for income generation.
“You have to decide which 50 percent you are going to be in,” Minister Skerritt told participants, acknowledging that everyone will not have the inclination to become an entrepreneur. “What I can tell you is that the Craft House will continue to be of assistance. The equipment will continue to be available to you.”
Persons not using the skill for business purposes were encouraged to continue practicing pottery for the recreational benefits.
