Residents and visitors were also taught how to twist rope.

The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands’ “Brac Elderly Artists” programme held in the front yard of the Heritage House on Wednesday, 30 April proved to be a success with over 15 people in attendance. Participants included several of the elders’ caretakers and visitors within the community where everyone enjoyed the knowledge and information that were being imparted on them.

Anne Lee Ebanks taught the fundamentals of thatching and her sister, Valda Watson, provided a demonstration on the twisting of thatch rope. The two have been in the profession for over fifty years and were very pleased in being afforded the opportunity to teach other members their profession.

A light lunch was served inside the Heritage House where participants had lively conversations about the “olden days” when these two arts were a necessity to daily living. The discussions proved to be informative and the two teachers were further asked about their profession and the variety of the art.

Ms Ebanks said she was very pleased with the turnout and hopes the classes will continue to grow. She encouraged others who hold special skills to come forward to demonstrate their ‘know-how’.

Event transportation was provided by David Hurlston and will later continue to be provided free by Social Services. The “Elderly Artists” programme is open to all senior citizens and is held on the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30 am to noon at the Brac Heritage House. Please contact National Gallery Sister Islands Officer, Simone Scott at 939-5306 or Heritage House Assistant Coordinator, Derry Lee Martin at 948-0563 for more information.