St. Kitts – Nevis Pottery Workshop
Basseterre, St. Kitts
February 18, 2009 (SKNIS)
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture Lloyd Lazar stressed that art and craft production is important as it captures the spirit of St. Kitts and Nevis.
The comments were made at the recent opening of a pottery training workshop organized by the Craft House. Mr. Lazar told participants that their presence at such a function is encouraging and the items they produce, portray to visitors a message about the twin-island Federation.
“As you know the tourism industry is a very significant part of our economy,” he noted. “Visitors when they come to our shores “¦ they like to buy craft items, and they certainly like to know that the items they are purchasing are designed and manufactured in St. Kitts and Nevis so it is very important as we strengthen our tourism product, that we recognize the value of what is happening here.”
Mr. Lazar took delight in the number of young men in particular, that have shown interest in learning this type of skill.
“I am very pleased that I see “¦ four men in this session, and two of them are young students. I spoke to one of them and he mentioned how very proud he is to be a part of the workshop and he expressed in a very positive way that he is committed to what we are all doing here.”
The pottery workshop runs from February 16 to May 21. Classes are held three times daily to allow greater schedule flexibility for the 50 participants. Pottery Consultant Adam Azaire of St. Lucia is facilitating the 13-week course which was organized in conjunction with the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).
Some of the participants shared their experience with SKNIS and each gave positive reviews. One woman suggested that the training segment are extensive and will give participants a strong understanding of the ceramist field. Another female participant said that she was anxious to learn and master this new skill and looked forward to producing items for sale.
Entrepreneur Carla Astaphan of the local company The Potter’s House, indicated that she has been in business for quite some time and enjoys the field.
“Even though I am an experienced potter, there is always something new to learn,” she stressed. “Adam is an excellent teacher. He is very, very talented and I did not want to miss out. “¦ I am making full use of this programme.”
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has allocated over 20 percent of the BNTF fifth programme budget of $5.6 million for skills training and capacity building in communities.