Bushi Nenge Arts and Heritage Day

Date: December 20, 2025
Location: 16 Saint Maurice 4, Auguste et Alfred de St Quentin, 97320 Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni
Admission: Free

Celebrate the artistry and heritage of Bushi Nenge culture at Bushi Nenge Arts and Heritage Day, a full-day event showcasing traditional crafts, visual arts, music, dance, and storytelling. This event is designed for the entire community, providing hands-on experiences and interactive learning opportunities that highlight the creativity and historical depth of Bushi Nenge culture.

The day will begin at 9:00 a.m. with a welcome and cultural introduction. Participants will learn about the significance of arts and crafts in Bushi Nenge culture, including how traditional patterns, designs, and techniques reflect social, spiritual, and historical themes. The introduction emphasizes the interconnectedness of all cultural expressions, from visual arts to music, dance, and storytelling.

From 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the morning session will feature traditional craft workshops. Participants can try their hand at weaving, beadwork, wood carving, and other traditional artistic techniques. Skilled artisans from the community will provide guidance, demonstrating methods, explaining the cultural meaning behind patterns, and offering tips for creating authentic pieces. This session encourages creativity, skill-building, and appreciation of craftsmanship.

A midday interlude will allow participants to enjoy light refreshments while networking with other attendees. This informal gathering encourages discussion about cultural heritage, the creative process, and personal connections to Bushi Nenge traditions.

From 1:00 p.m., the focus will shift to music and dance demonstrations. Performers from the Bushi Nenge community will showcase traditional rhythms, dances, and songs, explaining the cultural context of each performance. Participants are invited to join in, learning basic dance steps and practicing rhythms on traditional instruments. This interactive session ensures that the artistic and performative aspects of the culture are not only observed but experienced directly.

At 3:00 p.m., the program will feature heritage storytelling sessions, where elders and cultural experts will narrate folktales, historical accounts, and cultural legends. Participants will learn the values, lessons, and historical context embedded in these stories. This session also explores the relationship between stories and other forms of artistic expression, highlighting the integrated nature of Bushi Nenge heritage.

The day will conclude at 4:30 p.m. with a community showcase, combining crafts, music, and storytelling. Attendees will have the opportunity to display the artworks they created, perform short musical pieces or dances, and share reflections on their experiences. The showcase encourages pride, collaboration, and a lasting connection to cultural practices.

Bushi Nenge Arts and Heritage Day provides a comprehensive exploration of culture through multiple mediums, emphasizing hands-on learning, intergenerational interaction, and community engagement. Participants leave with new skills, a deeper appreciation for Bushi Nenge traditions, and a sense of belonging to a living cultural community.