Day seven of #DesignWeekJA2019 saw Spaces on Ardenne Road hosting a pop-up shop featuring the work of four talented local craftswomen. Attendees could not resist the draw of painter Natali Daley, Beenybud principal Ashley Rousseau, candlemaker Danneill Laird, and ceramicist Anna-K Cuffe.

The Spaces showroom was merchandised so that each craftswoman could have her own space, without having to negatively impact the store’s shopability for those who came to purchase furniture or arrange for a design consultation.

Ceramic artist and principal of The Artistic Mermaid Anna-K Cuffe had several whimsical pieces that paid homage to coral reefs. Whoever said that activism was devoid of beauty was terribly mistaken. The collection of items that Cuffe chose for the pop-up included jewellery, bottle stoppers, wall art, home décor and objets d’art.

Ashley Rousseau, through her Beenybud fine crafts, showed that traditional Jamaican straw products still belong in the home. From serving trays to fashionable tote bags, Beenybud showcased items were aesthetically pleasing. Rousseau also ingeniously uses wood and gourds to make products that have greater longevity — the sort of items that can be passed on to another generation.

Ashley Laird Candles principal Danneill Laird’s items were appealing to both the visual and olfactory senses. The candles were packaged in glass jars with lids that encourage upcycling and reuse. From storing make-up brushes to small succulents, the repurposing of Ashley Laird Candle jars is endless.

Natali Daley’s paintings with their bold brush strokes and fantastic use of colour allow the eye to travel across any room they adorn. Daley, who is also an art illustator, has a sophisticated eye; however, she doesn’t take herself too seriously and believes in creating fun pieces.

The Spaces #SipShopSupportLocal pop-up wasn’t just about exposing the work of local craftswomen to its clientele. There was also an alturistic element — proceeds of the event are earmarked for Hurricane Dorian relief. So guests could feel good about supporting local businesswomen and those affected by hurricane floods.