Arts & handicrafts of Grenada

Along with spice industry, the arts & handicrafts of Grenada are the mainstays of its economy. Grenadian arts & handicrafts have played a significant role in shaping the local history, spawning the more recent social changes in the island-nation. Grenada abounds in art galleries that display the creations of local artists and craftsmen. A lot has appeared about Grenadian artists and their work in Art Grenada that now exhibits and sells exclusively work churned out in Grenada. Ivan Godfrey, Donald Irwin, Christine Matuschek, Canute Caliste, and Susan Mains are some of the Grenadian painters who have won international acclaim through their colourful work that is endearingly Caribbean in tempo and flavour.

The proprietor of Art Grenada is Richard Buchanan, once curator at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Besides paintings and handicrafts, cottage industries for locally-made jams, jellies and syrups, especially nutmeg, local fresh fruits and vegetables are thriving.

The Grenada Arts Council (GAC) is another institution that actively promotes local artwork and artists. Established in 1964, it’s a tax exempt NGO that functions independently, without government funding and consistent corporate sponsorship. To gain accurate knowledge about local Grenadian handicraft industry, do visit the vibrant market in the middle of the capital city, St. George. It is the hub of activity on the island, where souvenir, gift and handicraft shops line the streets.

The best buys in Grenada are gaily coloured batik and screen-printed textiles, leather goods and wooden carvings. Grenada is also renowned the world over for its unique and intricate shell jewellery.

Art & cultural fairs

Grenadian art and cultural fairs have done their fair share in effectively showcasing indigenous arts and handicrafts to the outside world. The Rainbow Festival City, organized as part of the Grenada Carnival in Grenville presents an eye-popping range of arts and crafts against a backdrop music and cultural performances, street dancing. It also offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to sample the singular cuisine of the island-nation.

In addition to the Carnivals, Carriacou Parang and Carriacou Maroon Music Festivals are fun and lively sessions, reflecting Grenada’s unique Afro-European heritage. Extensive arts and crafts shows are held on the fringes of these celebrations, where visitors are provided with the opportunity to view and buy authentic local handiwork.

By: Mini Sreenarayanan

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