Pieces Created At The Pottery Workshop
Basseterre, St. Kitts – Nevis
March 26, 2009 (SKNIS)
The value of the ongoing 13 week Pottery Skills Workshop at the Craft House was evident on Wednesday as the faces of participants beamed with pride and a sense of accomplishment.
SKNIS cameras visited the workshop for an update of the course that started on February 16. A number of originally produced items were on display and persons were grateful for the session organized under the umbrella of the Ministry of Tourism, Sports and Culture and funded by the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).
“This is actually my first workshop “¦ working with clay and I am enjoying it. It’s a thorough workshop and in five weeks, we have done so much work,” said Donaly Brotherson. “I love it,” Jacinth Laplace proclaimed. “I am proud to be here and I think Mr. Weekes should also be proud because this workshop [is lovely].”
Experienced potter Carla Astaphan explained that she is using the course as a refresher and was amazed at the creativity of the newcomers. “I am seeing things that I would never in my wildest dreams have thought of doing in clay,” she said. “People have really explored the boundaries of clay, it’s a wonderful workshop and I’m really happy that I am taking part in it.”
Some of the participants indicated that they will produce items for sale as the skill being learnt has earning potential.
Adam Azaire of St. Lucia, brought 20 years of experience in facilitating the workshop. He told SKNIS that the session is in its sixth week and is on track as participants are currently working on the potter’s wheel.
Azilla Clarke, BNTF’s Community Liaison Officer stressed that her agency was quick to support the project as it would create a cadre of locals learning skills that can be geared towards employment in the growing tourism industry. She noted that BNTF will work closely with the Craft House to ensure that the participants are also developed with “a business mindset.”
Craft House General Manager Austin Weekes noted that he was very satisfied with the event at the midway point. “My expectations are really blown away. “¦ We’ve achieved our objectives [to date],” he said.
The weekday workshop is staged three times daily. Sessions run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Mr. Weekes explained that this schedule affords working people the convenience of choosing a convenient schedule.
Persons interested in viewing the items produced are encouraged to visit the Craft House at C. A. Paul Southwell Industrial Site.