Jamaican artisans to showcase craft at New Orleans Jazz Festival

Jamaica is set to shine at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, with two talented artisans from the island, Dana Baugh and Omar “Sheldon” Daley, showcasing their unique crafts. As part of a five-member Jamaican delegation, they will be featured in the festival’s Cultural Exchange Pavilion, a testament to Jamaica's rich cultural heritage being celebrated as the event's country of focus. Dana Baugh, founder of BAUGHaus Design Studio, brings her handcrafted porcelain tableware and sculptural pieces, inspired by the vibrant tapestry of Jamaican life. Her work aims to convey a Caribbean identity that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted, moving beyond the typical sun, sand, and sea narrative. Omar “Sheldon” Daley, a master thatch straw weaver, continues a tradition passed down from his mother, drawing on Taíno and African heritage to create exquisite bags, baskets, and trays. His participation highlights the dedication of artisans striving to keep traditional crafts alive, even in the face of challenges like natural disasters. The support from the Sandals Foundation has been crucial for artisans like Daley, helping them overcome obstacles and rebuild production. This initiative, as noted by Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, represents a significant investment in people and communities, preserving not just craft but also livelihoods. For Jamaica, this festival is a vital platform to expose its artists to a global audience, foster cultural exchange, and inspire the next generation of creatives. It’s an opportunity to proudly present the depth and diversity of Jamaican artistry to the world.

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When people experience my work at the festival, I want them to feel a Caribbean that is both elevated and deeply rooted… It’s about showing that our story goes beyond sun, sand and sea—it is rich, layered and beautifully expressed through what we make and use every day.