Baskets from Andros Island Bahamas

These pieces from the 1980’s and 90’s are made in The Village of Red Bays on Andros Island, Bahamas. The small group of families are descended from Seminole African people who were forced to flee Florida when it was annexed in the 1800’s.

The gorgeous, heavy, sturdy work is made from silver top palm they collect, strip, dry and sew with sail needles to create the tight coils. We would often trade for children’s clothes, household goods, toys, etc. and socialize for the day, since the road requires a four wheel drive vehicle or boat to access the village until more recent years.

Some of the artists were invited to display and create their work at the Smithsonian Folklife festival in Washington, DC.

I share these photos because their art is unique and is often mistaken as that of other cultures. Enjoy!