Minister of Trade, Industry and Commerce, George
While Government is willing to provide the resources to keep the Pelican Craft Centre afloat, Minister of Trade, Industry and Commerce, George Hutson, has challenged the sector to be more innovative in its designs.
He has also pledged to come up with new and pioneering ways to support the sector and to increase pedestrian traffic into the island’s lone craft centre.
Mr. Hutson gave this undertaking at a press conference to disclose plans for the upcoming Novo Culturefest, slated for November 21 to 23, at the Pelican Craft Centre, Princess Alice Highway, St. Michael. The festival now in its second year, is being put on by the Barbados Investment and Development Corporation (BIDC).
Despite the small numbers of visitors and locals who patronised the facility daily, he said Pelican had made a significant contribution to the development of local arts and craft over the years.
Given this situation, Mr. Hutson pointed out that the Novo Culturefest would enhance the centre’s appeal as an ideal place to purchase craft. “Pelican needs that shot in the arm, and the Novo Culturefest is an initiative to boost this location’s appeal to residents and Barbadians alike. Thus, I want to encourage Barbadians to support our local artists … Come, buy and enjoy the diversity of products available for sale,” he said.
The BIDC’s Craft Development Officer, Sandra Browne, said the corporation was committed to the development of the craft sector, adding: “We think that it is time that this craft centre [Pelican] becomes a rising star on the cultural landscape of Barbados, and this festival would do just that.”
She expressed hope that the Novo Culturefest would attract large numbers like the annual Crop Over Festival.
The two day event will bring together the best in Barbadian talent and cuisine, and overseas culinary delights.