Main Street exhibition kicks off Emancipation Day celebrations 2024

As Guyana gears up for Emancipation Day celebrations in 2024, Main Street in Georgetown has been transformed into a vibrant celebration of African culture. The air is filled with an energetic ambiance, complemented by colorful outfits, intricately beaded displays, and a variety of traditional crafts.
From savory African delicacies to intricate sculptures and refreshing drinks, Guyanese from all walks of life are flocking to the avenue daily to purchase that special piece of African jewellery, outfit, or even delicious delicacies.
The Guyana Times wandered through the lively Main Street and chatted with a range of exhibitors, from young to old, who were enthusiastic about sharing their stories.

David’s Creative Design
Sherica Ambrose, Miss Heritage Queen 2015 who hails from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) spoke passionately about a 16-year-old business, David’s Creative Design, which she recently joined.
Ambrose, who is of Indigenous descent, expressed joy in exploring and integrating African culture into her work.
“Some of my pieces are mostly beads and are made out of wood…these take about a week to create,” Ambrose shared while emphasising her fondness for the craft. She also highlighted the similarities between Indigenous and African cultures.

“Indigenous culture is very similar; we share similar designs in our beadwork and woodwork. The main difference is the size of the beads, but our traditional dress codes are very much alike. Traditional African beadwork is very similar to Indigenous designs.”
Working alongside her was Natasha David who serves as her mentor. David explained that leading up to and on the Emancipation is a pivotal time for her business.
“We make handmade jewelry made from natural seed, bamboo or whatever local I can put my hands on, I can make it for my customer.”
She added, “This means a lot because we showcase what we can do and we manage to gain a lot of customers during this time.”

Clay Earrings
Mere inches away from David Creatives Design was Deon Jessamy, who specialises in crafting African-designed earrings out of bare clay, a process marked by patience and precision.
“With polymer earrings, we have to first condition the clay and then create the patterns. You can make it in whatever pattern you want. After that, you have to bake it, sand it, polish it, and then assemble it. It’s a tedious task, but it’s worth it,” Jessamy explained.

Reflecting on the laborious process of making the beads, she noted that, despite the effort involved, their creation holds significant importance for her business at this time.
“It means a lot because our foreparents fought for us to have this freedom and the ability to be free and creative.”
13-year-old making beaded chains
Meanwhile, this publication also caught up with 13-year-old Onivea Arthur, who is learning the art of weaving beads to make creative hand bands, necklaces, and chains from her sister, Oneca Yaw – the owner of Hummingbird Design and Decor.
Speaking about her younger sister, Yaw revealed her pride in teaching Onivea the craft of making beaded chains. Not only is Onivea learning the art form, but she is also getting to sell some of her creations.

“She was the one who made the bands, and I am the one who ordered the beads for her. When she goes back to school, she can start a little business for herself and sell to her friends. These beads are ordered online, and she uses her own creativity to blend them together beautifully,” Yaw said.
Highlighting the various intricate patterns created through rigorous handwork, June Ann Taylor pointed out the importance of handmade crafts over imported goods.
“I think this should be a part of the Emancipation celebration, where people make their own items and bring them out to sell. People would see the different designs and craftsmanship. But lately, many are just bringing in stuff from different countries to sell, and I think it takes away from our Emancipation culture,” Taylor expressed.
On this realisation, she offered some advice for businesses. “To be truthful, I can’t force businesses and tell them what to do because many people don’t know how to sew or assemble pieces correctly. They prefer to order from online or import goods to Guyana. But to me, the essence of the business should really be about putting together your craft and handiwork.”
The exhibition on Main Street Georgetown, with its array of crafts and jewelry, not only celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Africa but also highlights the interconnectedness of various cultures, fostering a sense of unity and creativity as Guyana commemorates Emancipation.