By: Ishena Robinson
Martinique is a little island in the Caribbean with big-hearted, and multi-talented people. This was the enduring impression I received upon a recent visit to the country. Colors are vibrant and explosive as you drive on the pristine and winding roads in Martinique., Fflowers burst from the sides of the streets, and the aptly named “flame trees” capture the eye like bright birds on the edges of the sky. It's no wonder the island's inhabitants are inspired to imbue the same color and brightness into their artistic creations.
Most immediately inspired by the Martinican landscape are its culinary experts. Take Galanga Fish Bar, for example, operated by Chef Yadji Zami; the restaurant features a regularly changing menu that is shaped by products from local agriculture and fishing. Recent offerings were crafted to celebrate the anniversary of the abolition of slavery in Martinique, and featured gems such as Nàg Gwo Siwo – a riff off caramelized Black “battery” syrup (a by product of the process to make sugar from cane) – freshly grilled and buttery-tender Mahi Mahi, and a desert of a crispy and chewy lemon Pavlova accompanied by a sorbet of tart and sweet dragon fruit.
Other more traditional artists are no less colorful in their enterprises. On a visit to the Atelier de Mounia, the beautiful refuge of the iconic model who was famously the muse for designer Yves Saint Laurent, I was stunned by the glorious shades and textures of her paintings. Mounia uses vibrant deep blues that reflect the Atlantic Ocean coast of her beloved island, as well as burnished golds that reflect the elegance with which she famously walked the runways of Paris. One of her standout pieces was a repurposed traditional Martinican clothes tray, in which she captures sumptuous colors and figures.
Across the island, at Atelier ARTPERKUT, the incredibly talented mask maker Sylviane Eneleda works at her craft – creating fantastical characters and creatures out of paste and papier-mâché. I had the special pleasure of wearing one of her extravagant creations, which felt light on my head despite its larger than life size. Her pieces are coveted costumes for Martinique’s annual carnival, which takes place in the spring.
The vibrant hues and shapes of the produce heaped on the seller’s tables at the Grand Marche in Fort-de-France echo the colorful crafts created by the island’s artisans and offered for sale in the airy steel and glass building. You can get everything from luscious mangos and fashionably woven handbags to spices and potent pods of vanilla grown in Martinique. Le Grand Marche bustles with the signature kindness and bonhomie of the Martinican people, and promises a sweet adventure for anyone who visits.
For the art lover, Martinique is a paradise.
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