Director of Culture Dr. Katherine Smith has announced that the mural, "The Manatee" will be unveiled on Friday at the Bamboushay Lounge in honour the Virgin Islands’ maritime heritage. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Dr. Smith said this year, the Culture and Tourism Month has focused on cultural tourism and the Bamboushay Lounge represents a business with a cultural product.

“The lounge’s pottery is a great example of the cultural arts and craft. The unveiling of the mural 'The Manatee' and its homage to Virgin Islands maritime and marine heritage has served to craft its cultural ambiance even further," Dr. Smith said.

The occasion will feature a line-up of speakers, including Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith, Director of the Virgin Islands Studies Institute Mrs. Bernadine Louis, and Managing Director of the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK)  Dr. Shannon Gore. Artist Christine Taylor will also make a special presentation on the mural's artistic vision.

The event will culminate with the unveiling of the mural, which celebrates the important role of the Manatee in the Territory’s maritime history.

Meanwhile, owner of Bamboushay Lounge Mr. Eldred Williams, said the commissioning of the mural has a personal and deeper meaning for him. “It is rooted in my personal memories of working during my younger years at the boatyard at the Moorings with David Smith and Evelyn Hodge,” he said, adding, “As a result of that experience, I would like to celebrate and highlight Virgin Islands maritime and marine heritage in my business ventures. The Manatee represents something, once so prevalent, that has been lost."

The Department of Culture is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands. Through various programs, events, and initiatives, the department fosters awareness and appreciation of the unique history, traditions, and creative expressions that shape the identity of the Territory. The Department of Culture works to ensure that the stories of the Virgin Islands are shared with future generations and contribute to the continued development of cultural tourism in the region.