Kites sales to fly high this Easter!

DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, April 10, 2019

Easter Monday is only two weeks away, and vendors on Camp and Regent Streets are encouraging persons to pick up their kites ahead of the last-minute rush.

Trevor Smith, better known as the ‘Original Kite Man’ or ‘Mr. Kite Man’, is now 40 years into the craft of making and selling kites. “After making my kites, I come out with one plan, to sell my kites. I’m very happy that I have a connection with the Guyanese public,” he told the Department of Public Information.

He anticipates the sudden spike in sales during the days leading up to Easter Monday and all the excitement that comes with it. Smith also feels Guyanese are beginning to realise that they are one people. “To be honest, the excitement is extremely high for me because I love making kites. I don’t like, I love making kites!”

‘The Original Kite Man’ says making kites is a unique and authentic art and according to the “African mystery symbol when you want to be a grandmaster in whatever trade you have, you must go to school for forty years. So, this year, I consider myself a grandmaster in making kites because this is my fortieth year with this craft and it’s a happy feeling for me.”

The interaction with the public and being able to give kites to small children to brighten their little faces brings him joy.

Just opposite him is Ryan Anselmo popularly known as ‘The Easter Bunny’, who has been selling kites for 21 years at the same location. He boasts of never having to return home with a single kite, as he is sold out before the end of Easter. Anselmo said because it’s the first week, buyers are “just now coming out, but things will pick up in a few days’ time”.

Anselmo said while there are those persons “the early birds” who purchase well in advance for various kite flying competitions among schools or groups; the real shopping begins next week.

“You know, Guyanese like Easter, this is our celebration! From the first day I put my kites out I get sales. Nowhere around the world can you go and see this.”

Smith and Anselmo can be found on Camp Street. Kites are available in sizes 18”, 20”, 2 feet and larger, catering for all ages.

Easter is a holiday that bridges the gap between racial and religious differences in Guyana in a similar way as the recently celebrated Phagwah.

Kipenie Jordan.

Images: Giovanni Gajie.

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