The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan), has officially launched “Mas Making Magic: from Vision to Costume”, a hands-on workshop aimed at equipping Saint Lucian costume designers with new tools, skills, and creative techniques. The initiative forms part of the 2025 Spotlight Taiwan Project.
Drenia Frederick, Executive Director of the CDF, explained that the workshop reflects a balance between preserving heritage and embracing innovation.
“We know culture is not static, it’s ever evolving. But how do we take what we know already and translate it to move with the times? This workshop is about strengthening that process, giving our designers, builders and artists the tools to dream bigger, build stronger, and keep our traditions alive while evolving them.”
Taiwan’s Ambassador, Her Excellency Nicole Su, highlighted the long-standing partnership between Taiwan and Saint Lucia in cultural development.
“This is consecutively for so many years that we have partnered with the CDF to bring our two cultures to meet and inspire one another. I am very proud to introduce Master Zhuang Xianyu, an accomplished artist with 20 years of experience in designing and making traditional large-scale lanterns.”
Senator Guibion Ferdinand, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, underscored the importance of costume innovation and capacity building.
“I noticed in recent times that costumes have become larger, more sophisticated, and more attractive. What is most important is that the persons carrying them seem under less stress and are able to do more. This training will ensure that competencies, knowledge, and skills are passed on to facilitators, who in turn can inspire budding young costume makers.”
The Mas Making Magic workshop will provide designers and cultural practitioners with practical training in costume creation, blending Taiwanese expertise with Saint Lucian traditions to strengthen the island’s creative industries.
