THE work of the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) includes providing avenues which nurture, support and develop artistic expression within the cultural and creative sectors of our society. Consequently, CDF is in the preliminary stages of planning for CARIFESTA XIII, a responsibility bestowed upon the organization by Ministry of Equity, Social Justice, Empowerment, Youth Development, Sports, Culture and Local Government.
In order to ensure that Saint Lucia’s contribution to CARIFESTA 2017 highlights the island’s diverse cultural heritage and rich creative spirit, a Visioning Committee has been created to conceptualize Saint Lucia’s presentation at the multicultural event slated for August 2017 in Barbados.
Additionally, planning has begun for one of our flagship events, the Cultural Icons Series; a project designed to pay tribute to the visual artists, actors, dancers, writers, musicians and folk artistes who have written about, painted, composed and created a large part of the Saint Lucian identity. These ‘cultural icons’ inspire the nation and tell our story to the world.
The Cultural Icon Series, now into its’ third year has recognized the indelible contribution made by the Charles Cadet in the area of music (2015) and the late Virginia “Aunty Virgie” Alexander for her influence in dance (2016). The Visioning Committee will have the added responsibility of undertaking the selection of the Cultural Icon to be honoured in May of this year.
The Committee consists of the following persons:Mr. John Robert Lee (Chairman) ,Mr. Adrian Augier, Mr. Crispin d’Auvergne, Mr. Petrus Compton, Mr. Trevor King, Mrs. June King- Frederick, Ms. Drenia Frederick, Mr. Richmond Felix.