Heritage cultural extravaganza sees several first-timers benefitting
DPI, Guyana, Sunday, September 2, 2018
The cultural extravaganza continued on Sunday evening at the Indigenous Village in Sophia as scores of Guyanese familiarised themselves with the Indigenous culture. Exhibitors from across the country were afforded the opportunity to showcase their products and bring awareness to the Indigenous culture and traditions.
The exhibition also saw a number of first-timers, all of whom expressed their satisfaction with being a part of the celebrations.
Walter Larose from Region One, is the founder of Oyono Products where he makes cassava-based products with his signature product being the cassareep. “My products are original. It does not have any flavour so it is directly from the cassava so that is original and what makes it unique” Larose stated.
He has been receiving great feedback from persons who bought the cassareep adding that many persons also liked its presentation. “They came and complimented me on how it is presented because it is on another level compared to other products” he shared.
Another first-time exhibitor was Nicholas Sookdeo from Region Three who is an artist. Sookdeo’s drawings are labelled ‘Ma-ko-she Art’, a little twist he placed on ‘Macushi’ which is one of the nine Indigenous tribes in Guyana. He said much of his inspiration for his drawing comes from the rich history of the Indigenous people not only in Guyana but also from the rest of the world. He noted that the response from patrons has been overwhelming. “Most people said they have never really come across drawings like these” Sookdeo stated.
Natasha David of David’s Creative Design is a regular exhibitor at the Heritage Village. She designs a number of accessories, baskets, dolls and costumes. According to David, over the years, the exhibition has provided her with the opportunity to expand her customer base and business.
“People love my products so they come out and look for me to get their accessories and whatever they need to wear.” She also pointed out that the heritage celebration is something that she looks forward to every year.
For Carolyn Limerick a patron, this year is also a first for her visiting the Heritage Village. Limerick told DPI that she is excited about exploring the Indigenous culture, more specifically the different foods. “The different meats that they barbeque – it looks nice, and everybody with their headbands and the Amerindian jewellery” are just some of the things that caught the eyes of Limerick.
The event continues tomorrow and admission is free of cost. A wide array of Indigenous food, drinks, accessories and art among other Indigenous products will be on sale.
By: Isaiah Braithwaite.
Images: Jules Gibson.