Pelican Craft Centre | Bridgetown

Pelican Craft Centre: A Hub for Barbadian Art and Craftsmanship

The Pelican Craft Centre is a prominent shopping and cultural destination located in Bridgetown, Barbados. This vibrant marketplace showcases the rich craftsmanship, artistry, and cultural heritage of the island. It serves as a great place for visitors to purchase authentic Barbadian souvenirs, explore local arts and crafts, and support local artisans.

1. Overview

• Location: The Pelican Craft Centre is centrally located on Broad Street, in the heart of Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. It is easily accessible from other key attractions and is often visited by tourists exploring the city.
• History: The Pelican Craft Centre was established in the 1970s as a project to promote and preserve the traditional Barbadian craftsmanship and culture. It was designed as a market space where local artisans and craft makers could sell their products and showcase their skills.
• Focus: The Centre specializes in locally made goods, providing visitors with a true representation of Barbadian culture through arts and crafts. It is a place where both locals and tourists can explore handmade jewelry, paintings, textiles, carvings, and much more.

2. Features and Attractions

Local Artisans: The Pelican Craft Centre houses a variety of local artisans who create unique, handmade products that reflect Barbadian heritage. Many of the artisans are on-site, allowing visitors to interact with them, learn about their craft, and watch them work.

Crafts for Sale: The market offers a wide array of traditional Barbadian crafts, including:

• Wood carvings: Intricate carvings of animals, people, and island scenes are commonly sold.
• Handmade jewelry: Visitors can find locally made bracelets, necklaces, and earrings made from silver, gold, coral, and other native materials.
• Textiles and Fabrics: Beautiful fabrics like batik, handwoven baskets, and traditional clothing such as dresses and shirts.
• Artworks and Paintings: Local paintings and prints capturing the beauty of the island’s landscapes, people, and culture.
• Pottery and Ceramics: Handcrafted pottery that represents Barbados’ artistic traditions and uses island clay.
• Local Dolls: Handmade Barbadian dolls dressed in traditional clothing.

Barbadian Souvenirs: The Centre is an ideal place for visitors to pick up authentic Barbadian souvenirs, whether it's a wooden carving, a painting of the beach, or Bajan spices. The market is known for high-quality, locally made goods that offer a true taste of the island.

Gift Ideas: For those seeking meaningful gifts or keepsakes, the Pelican Craft Centre is a one-stop shop for unique, handcrafted items that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Barbados.

3. Cultural Experience

• Interactive Experience: Visitors to the Pelican Craft Centre are often able to meet the artisans and learn about the creative processes behind their products. Whether it’s watching a woodcarver shape a piece of driftwood into art or learning about the history of Barbadian textiles, the market offers an educational experience.
• Art and Tradition: The Centre serves as an important space for preserving Barbadian art and traditional craftsmanship. The crafts sold here often carry deep cultural meanings, rooted in the island's history, customs, and folklore. The opportunity to connect with the creators adds a personal touch to the experience.
• Support for Local Artists: By shopping at the Pelican Craft Centre, visitors are supporting local artists and the Barbadian economy. Many of the products sold are produced in small workshops or at the homes of artisans, contributing directly to the livelihoods of the craftspeople.

4. Visitor Experience

• Shopping Experience: The Pelican Craft Centre offers a relaxed and enjoyable shopping environment. The market is well-organized, with booths and shops arranged to provide a wide range of options for browsing. The open-air nature of the centre creates a friendly atmosphere, with the opportunity to chat with vendors, ask about the crafts, and purchase directly from the makers.
• Cultural Hub: The Centre serves as a cultural hub, where visitors can not only buy goods but also immerse themselves in the island’s artistic traditions. It's a place where visitors can learn about the history of Barbadian art forms, from carving techniques to painting styles.
• Relaxed Environment: The Centre is less crowded than some of the island's larger tourist attractions, offering a more intimate and relaxed shopping experience. Visitors can take their time to explore the variety of crafts and engage with artisans without feeling rushed.

5. Nearby Attractions

• National Heroes Square: Located a short distance away, this square celebrates Barbados’ national heroes and is home to several statues and monuments.
• The Careenage: A picturesque harbor area perfect for taking a stroll, offering views of Bridgetown’s waterfront, shops, and restaurants.
• Bridgetown Shopping: Broad Street, where the Pelican Craft Centre is located, is a main shopping district in Bridgetown, featuring a mix of local boutiques, duty-free shops, and commercial outlets.
• St. Michael’s Cathedral: A historic Anglican cathedral in Bridgetown, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Queen’s Park: A nearby park offering lush green spaces and cultural experiences, including art exhibitions and events.

6. Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The Pelican Craft Centre is open daily, but for a quieter experience, it’s recommended to visit in the morning or during weekdays. Saturdays tend to be busier, especially with tourists and locals alike.
• Cash and Currency: While some vendors may accept cards, it’s advisable to carry cash in Barbadian dollars or US dollars for most transactions. Smaller, local shops often prefer cash payments.
• Bargaining: While prices are generally fixed, some vendors may be open to negotiation or offering discounts for larger purchases.
• Parking: There is parking available nearby, but it can be limited during busy times. It’s often easiest to walk to the centre if you're already exploring Bridgetown.

7. Conclusion

The Pelican Craft Centre is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Barbados. With its range of handcrafted goods, the Centre offers an authentic glimpse into the island's artistic traditions, making it the perfect place to buy souvenirs, artwork, and local crafts. Whether you’re interested in the history behind the crafts, enjoying a relaxing shopping experience, or supporting local artists, the Pelican Craft Centre is a vital part of Bridgetown's cultural landscape.