St. Kitts and Nevis’ Arts and Culture Scene

St. Kitts and Nevis’ arts and culture scene exists alongside the islands’ breath-taking natural beauty. In the midst of lush green landscapes of trees and plants, aquamarine waters filled with coral reefs where fish play and smiles from warm, welcoming people, there is a space where the cultural explorer will find solace.

Art and culture in St. Kitts and Nevis is expressed in a variety of ways. Dance, art, recorded history, theatre and drama and music are at the forefront of the scene in the islands. All year round, there are celebrations of culture and history. These celebrations and festivities include traditional elements as well as new interpretations of older elements.

Experiencing St. Kitts and Nevis’ Art and Culture Through Dance

The art of dance is one the most significant cultural expressions in the islands. Dance is a beloved tradition that comes to life for major festivals, events, and celebrations. One example is the islands’ carnival at Christmas time. During the season there is a visual presentation of pride of the culture and people who live in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Culturama, which is an annual cultural festival in Nevis, is an excellent opportunity to observe and experience traditional folk dances. Dances include the may pole dance, Moko jumbies, and the popular masquerade. The masquerade is a distinctive expression of culture on the islands. It features dancers dressed in exciting costumes with elaborate head dresses, masks, outfits and decorated with ribbons and bangles.

Some of the other events in St. Kitts and Nevis where traditional dance as well as modern dance can be observed include Sugar Mas – St. Kitts and Nevis’ national carnival, the St. Kitts Music Festival, Latin Fiesta, and the Nevis Blues Festival. In addition, there are several bars and nightclubs, where dancing to local and international music to the wee hours of the morning is the norm.

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Showcasing Creativity at the Art Galleries in St. Kitts and Nevis

The finest art galleries in St. Kitts and Nevis represent local and international artists, present themed exhibitions and exhibit art works, craft pieces and sculptures. The government has recognised the value and importance of Kittitian and Nevisian artists and maintains a registry that includes artistic painters, craft artisan, print makers, fine art photographers and designers.

St. Kitts and Nevis’ arts and culture scene is also evident through the rich artistic legacy that is supported by art galleries. The major art galleries in St. Kitts are the Mango Land Gallery, Gallery Café and Art Gallery and the Basseterre Art Gallery & Restaurant. The premier art gallery in Nevis is the Charlestown Gallery. In addition to being avenues through which art pieces are appreciated, art galleries also offer visitors a chance to experience the local art scene.

In addition to exhibitions at the major culture events such as Culturama and Sugar Mas, there are a few other places where local arts and craft can be viewed and purchased. Examples are The Olive Tree and the Artisan Village in Nevis; and Amina Craft Market and the Circus in St. Kitts. The St. Kitts Tourism Authority also lists contact information for some of its local art and craft creatives.

Embracing History Museums in St. Kitts and Nevis

Visitors can also experience St. Kitts and Nevis’ arts and culture scene by visiting museums. The museums in the islands are homes to iconic and historic masterpieces and findings from St. Kitts and Nevis’ past. Additionally, some of the museums are resident in ancient architectural buildings, which have their own special place in history. Although museums may be home to history, they are important in the journey to the future.

There are several museums in St. Kitts and Nevis which offer additional insight in the islands’ culture an artistic history. In St. Kitts the primary museums are The National Museum and the St. Christopher Heritage Society. The museums in Nevis are Nevisian Heritage Village, the Museum of Nevis, and the Horatio Nelson Museum.

In addition, there are also many buildings and properties, which had core roles in the development of art and culture. Examples in St. Kitts include Vambelle Estate, Charles Fort, and the War Memorial. In Nevis, there are the Jewish Cemetery and Jew’s Walk, Nevisian Heritage Village, and the entire city of Charleston. Historic St. Kitts has recognised the growing demand and interest in these cultural and historical sites and seeks to preserve them through education.

Artistic Expression Through Music in St. Kitts and Nevis

Music in St. Kitts and Nevis consists of deep rhythmic beats, melodies and songs. These are representative of Caribbean music culture. The history of music on the island goes back to the days of slavery, where enslaved people used music to communicate with each other. And, over the years, many additional forms of music made their way into St. Kitts and Nevis.

During events throughout the year, visitors are exposed to the various types of music and music culture on the island. One of the musical highlights on St. Kitts and Nevis is the St. Kitts Music Festival. It is an annual music that features all types of music and artistes from the St. Kitts, Nevis, the Caribbean and internationally. The diversity of the festival is very attractive for those who love good music. Over the years, the festival has attracted performers from all genres. There have beenincluding reggae, calypso, rhythm and blues, funk, jazz, classical, steel pan, zouk and hip hop.

Image: St. Kitts Tourism Authority

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