IT IS TIME for local artwork, not imported art, to adorn the walls of posh million-dollar condominiums and hotels
across Barbados.

Ireka Jelani, owner of Roots and Grasses and Jelani Consultancy Services, challenged Government to pave the way – or even make it mandatory – for such owners to buy local art.

During a frank interactive meeting for small and micro businesses with Minister of Trade, Industry and Commerce George Hutson at Banall's Point Gallery in the Pelican Craft Centre on Princess Alice Highway last week, the businesswoman said now was the time for change in attitudes to the sector.

"I would like to see Government make it mandatory to purchase local art for all the hotels, the condominiums . . . . When we have a dignitary coming to this country, why doesn't someone go to a potter like Anna Legall from Collectors Treasure, go to Aziza from Azipho's for nice copper jewellery? Why don't we present them with our Barbadian product," she said to loud applause from the audience.

Jelani, who has almost 30 years in crafts, suggested a well-stocked and functioning craft-supply shop be provided for artisans.

She lamented the lack of such a shop, pointing out that craftspersons had difficulty sourcing material such as beads in Bridgetown.

Jelani concluded that urgent action was needed to help craftspeople survive in an environment where the prices of products were constantly increasing. (JW)