By Foresee Foundation
There’s a small, colourful studio nestled in Cole Bay that hums with life – the kind of life that comes from painted hands, patched frocks, the sound of scissors snipping fabric, and voices swapping stories between generations. This is Our Creations, SXM Arts & Crafts Foundation, and at the centre of it all is one determined woman: Esther Narcisco-Williams.
She doesn’t make a lot of noise about it; but she doesn’t have to. Her work speaks volumes.
Founded in 1990, the foundation began as a simple idea – a place for local artists and crafters to call home. Over time, it’s become much more – a movement to preserve St. Maarten’s cultural fabric, one handmade piece at a time. Esther, as both founder and president, has shaped this space into a vibrant hub of heritage, learning and creativity. She saw what was missing and built it, sometimes quite literally, from the ground up.
The foundation started with the Cole Bay location in 2021 with just a trailer; Esther said at the opening of the foundation’s new home in 2023 that the trailer has since grown into an open-air sanctuary for artists. It now includes a store, a craft studio, office, and kitchen – each corner bursting with creativity and island soul. It’s also where the beloved Titah Frock sculptures are brought to life.
If you’ve seen them – those painted figurines – you know they’re more than just decorations. They tell stories of island women, culture, and craftsmanship. First came Lulu’s Dolls, then the Titahs, and now the paper apparel competition – all born from Esther’s vision. Each initiative gives local designers and creators a platform to be seen, appreciated, and celebrated.
But Esther didn’t do it alone. She built a space where others could shine. The foundation brings together elders and youth, bridging generations through workshops and old-school jollification. Seniors pass on their craft, sometimes literally patch by patch, to the next wave of makers. It’s not just about the final product. It’s about the process; the people; the pride.
Foundation member Paulina Cairo puts it plainly, “Supporting Our Creations means supporting locally made items. Esther made that possible.” She said it is an honour to recognize Esther for her long-term contribution to arts and craft on the island.
The foundation invites the wider community to get involved not just by buying or visiting, but by giving time. Volunteers help keep the space alive, and new energy is always welcome.
Want to join in? You can sign up via Volunteer.sx or call Esther at +1 (721) 554-2933 or Paulina at 522-3456.
