Bringing back the art of traditional crafts

Annalee Ebanks passes on a traditional craft

Friday,  February 10, 2006

All residents on Cayman Brac now have ample opportunity to learn or improve their art and craft skills in two programmes at the Heritage House in North East Bay.

Anyone who has ever wanted to learn the traditional craft of thatch work is now able to learn from one of the most gifted artists in this medium.

Annalee Ebanks, whose thatch baskets have, for many years, showcased the industry and detail of an old-time mainstay of Caymanian life, is offering lessons every Monday night, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. 

The cost per person $12.50 per hour or $25 for two hours, and the cost includes the items students make for themselves in class.

Ms Ebanks begins by teaching students how to prepare the tops of the thatch leaves, by tidying them around with three different ties to secure the colour inside, she said.

She then demonstrates the basic eleven-string stitch, which will eventually become a traditional basket, which are still used by local farmers on Cayman Brac.

Advanced students will learn the in-and-out plait and the shell plait, and also how to make house brooms from the backing of the tops.

“A lot of people still use traditional brooms. I do myself. They are better – they can take the sand out of corners and last longer. Even when they are old, you can just soak them in water and then you can use them again,” said Ms Ebanks.

“The students are all very interested and are doing very well,” said Ms Ebanks, who is currently finishing an order for the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman making wastepaper baskets, clothes hampers and towel trays for their state rooms. 

Later in the year, there will be a graduation for the students and displays of their work, she said. For more details call the Heritage House at 948 0563, or Annalee Ebanks at 948 1326.

Aspiring painters and writers on Cayman Brac are invited to an adult art group, which meets on Saturday mornings (weather permitting) in the gardens of the Heritage House throughout February and March.

Alison McLeod, who teaches art at the Cayman Brac High School (CBHS), said the idea is to bring artists and writers together to develop their ideas and work in an informal manner. The group meets around 9:30 am and works to around 12:30 pm.

“The garden is a lovely inspirational venue and it is hoped the group will continue to work around different venues on the Brac. All are welcome, but please bring your own materials and seats,” she said. 

Ms McLeod’s high school students will have their chance to display their work when the CBHS Art Department holds an exhibition at the Heritage House, opening 16 through 22 February. 

On display will be drawings, paintings, graphics, ceramics and mosaic work by the students. Some of the work will be for sale, funds to go to the CBHS PTA.

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