David Alleyne's Barbados - Through The Years by camillealleyne

David Alleyne’s BARBADOS - THROUGH THE YEARS

Commemorating Barbados’ 50 th Anniversary of Independence

Art by David Alleyne

Written by Camille Alleyne

images reflecting the work of an artist and interesting information about Barbados

VILLAGE RIDE (Image on the cover) Acrylic on Canvas 2012

David Alleyne’s Barbados – Through the Years Copyright © 2020 DAVID ALLEYNE, CAMILLE ALLEYNE First published by CAMILLE ALLEYNE of THE MEDIA PLACE 2016 New edition published by CAMILLE ALLEYNE of THE MEDIA PLACE 2020 TheMediaPlaceBarbados@gmail.com Art images copyrighted to David Alleyne. Photographs copyrighted to David Alleyne and Camille Alleyne.

All rights reserved. No reproductions allowed. Content must not be copied, shared, transmitted or distributed in any way or form without prior written permission from the publishers. Note: Some paintings are named for the purpose of this publication. Names may vary from those of the original pieces.

David Alleyne’s BARBADOS - THROUGH THE YEARS

Commemorating Barbados’ 50 th Anniversary of Independence

David Alleyne has been painting professionally for almost 30 years. He was attracted to visual arts from childhood before pursuing it at the tertiary level.

David, who was educated in the Fine Arts at the Barbados Community College, prefers acrylic as a medium. His vibrant work usually depicts aspects of Barbadian life, cultural happenings and a beautiful people. He was one of the 10 local artists chosen by the National Cultural Foundation to paint a portrait of one of our national heroes for our very first Heroes’ Day. The 18” x 18” portrait assigned to him was that of Sir Hugh Springer. Every National Heroes’ Day, this painting is hung, in public, as we celebrate .

Over the years, David Alleyne has built a sound client base which includes corporate and private collectors from Canada, United Kingdom, United States, Africa, and Bermuda. His Barbadian clientele consists of a number of recurring customers who have promoted his work extensively, via word of mouth. In 2004, this talented artist was commissioned to paint the cruise liner, “Queen Mary”, which was presented to the captain while docked at the Bridgetown port, in celebration of that inaugural voyage.

David is married to Camille and they have four children.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

CRICKET IN THE DISTRICT Acrylic on Canvas (Year unknown)

Dedication CONTENTS 4 … Dedication

David Alleyne’s Barbados – Through the Years is dedicated, firstly, to God who has been with me

6 … A Prayer of Thanksgiving 8 … General Information about Barbados 9 … The National Anthem of Barbados

during my successes and my failures.

I also have written this book in honour of the beautiful people I have met, who said how much they loved my work when I most needed to

10 … Introduction 11 … Through the Years

hear those words of encouragement. Many became wonderful clients who respected my gift

and appreciated the time and effort that went

62 … Barbados’ Gold: The Story of the Barbados Black Belly Sheep

into each piece. Last, but not least, Barbados – Through the Years is dedicated to my wife, Camille; my

78 … David’s Thank You 80 … Declarations over Barbados

children, Ethan, Christian, Jordan-Lee and Kenya; PALM WAY – 2010of my birth, Barbados. and the country Acrylic on Canvas th Anniversary, 30” x 40”50(Available as a print) Happy Barbados!

ALONE IN THE WATER Acrylic on Canvas 1986

“Whenever I look at this piece, which hangs in my brother Richard’s home, there is a deep sense of appreciation of the innocent nature of my expression during the early stages of my development.” 5

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

A PRAYER of thanksgiving Thank You, Lord for keeping us through the years. Thank You for the difficult times that drew us closer to You. Thank You for the blessings and breakthroughs that allowed us to see your greatness. Thank You for our government and the systems they crafted for us for a better quality of life - education, health care, transportation and so much more. Thank you for allowing us to enjoy freedom of religion, freedom of speech and the many other freedoms we experience. Thank you for our country, Barbados. May God be with us, guide us and help us as individuals to live the lives He purposed for us for His honour and glory, for ever and ever. In Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Name we pray. Amen. 6

David Alleyne’s “ROCKS AT DRILL HALL was done with acrylic paints on heavy duty watercolour paper. At 19 years old, I was experimental and was attempting to have a more watercolour effect for this piece. It didn’t work out as I thought as I

Barbados

gravitated to my usual “thunderfinger” approach which was an impasto-type application. This painting was actually accomplished over a period of two weeks, on location, in the Drill Hall/Hilton vicinity. I loved

Through the Years

the feeling of painting en plein air (in open air), because it felt like harnessing the powers of nature. As a result, in some strange way, the painting reflected the atmosphere of each given day – whether the sun was hot or wind high, it was encapsulated in the work.”

ROCKS AT DRILL HALL Acrylic on Watercolour Paper 1986

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT Barbados Flag:

Area: 166 square miles Population: 285,000 Capital: Bridgetown Highest Point: Mount Hillaby 1,115 feet National Dish: Flying Fish and Cou Cou Coat of Arms:

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

The National Anthem of Barbados

CRICKET IN THE DISTRICT Acrylic on Canvas (Year unknown)

In plenty and in time of need

The Lord has been the people's guide

When this fair land was young

For past three hundred years.

Our brave forefathers sowed the seed

With him still on the people's side

From which our pride is sprung,

We have no doubts or fears.

A pride that makes no wanton boast

Upward and onward we shall go,

Of what it has withstood

Inspired, exulting, free,

That binds our hearts from coast to coast

And greater will our nation grow

The pride of nationhood.

In strength and unity. Lyrics by: Irving Burgie

Chorus We loyal sons and daughters all Do hereby make it known These fields and hills beyond recall Are now our very own. We write our names on history's page With expectations great Strict guardians of our heritage, Firm craftsmen of our fate. 9

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Introduction By David Alleyne Marriage. Self-employment. Children. Door-to-door sales. Juggling. Balancing. Trying my best to manoeuvre through life and feeling as if I am making a mess of it most of the time. Some people are blessed with the ability to be multifaceted – creating art

and business both at once. Others, like me, seem to be stuck on the creative side, struggling to organize time, space and work. Give me paint and a brush and maybe I can create wonders, but to be honest, I find the thought of drafting proposals, budgeting and book-keeping to be quite daunting.

David Alleyne’s Barbados – Through the Years was published to commemorate Barbados’ 50th Anniversary of Independence – the perfect opportunity for us to see how much Barbados has changed over time. It is not, however, a historical chronicle, but simply a collection of paintings done over the years that highlight some of these changes. May this book be enjoyable to all who are drawn to the images therein, and by doing so, fall in love with this beautiful country …

Barbados.

Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50 Barbados 50

Through the years

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

The Early Years

Through the Years

was the hue, form, texture and composition of everything around him, that fascinated him. He recalls clearly, Miss Blackman, who

David Alleyne was born on May 5th, 1967, to

was his first art teacher at Pine Primary. She

the late Victor and late Joyce Alleyne. He grew

was the one who gave meaning to his life

up in a village called Mount Friendship, located

whenever he felt like a misfit and a failure in

in the Pine, St Michael, with three older

the classroom. Her encouragement, inspiration

siblings - Richard, Donna and Neville.

and dedication are some of the principal

At the age of five, David started his education at Pine Primary, and his first weeks remain etched in his memory.

reasons for David’s success today. Throughout the years, there were other

While other

teachers who contributed to the grooming of

children settled in well, he cried all day,

one of Barbados’ most beloved artists. These

everyday. It was not unusual for him to sneak

included Diane Butcher and the late Ian

out of class and find his way back home. As

Walcott, who taught him at Foundation Boys’

David matured, his creative side developed as

School, and subsequently Hartley Alleyne,

well. He took every opportunity to escape into

Joyce Daniel, Russell Hatcher, and Denise

his own world… a world he fashioned for

Menard-Greenidge, - his tutors at the Barbados

himself with pencils, crayons, paints and

Community College. This artistic soul never

David’s love for art was not the

quite thrived in the academic corridors of

typical child-like adoration for colouring books

traditional school, but his passion for art drove

and cartoon characters. It was much more. It

him to excel in his field.

brushes.

“FIGURES IN THE ROCK was done a short time after leaving the Barbados Community College. Painted on location, this piece started out as an attempt to capture the scene at hand - Bath, St John - but my focus shifted from a realistic approach to the capturing of the shapes I saw in the rock formation: the foetal shape located at the centre left of the piece; a swan’s image to the top right; and the diver, located at the centre of the painting (with head down between shoulders, and fingers touching toes).” Can you find these images in the painting?

FIGURES IN THE ROCK Acrylic on Canvas 36” x 24” Approximately 1988 - 1989

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Art as a Career

Through the Years

David soon learnt that if the painting he had was not what the client wanted, he could offer to produce one to order. This started his commission work.

Commissions, up until

Marriage. Marriage came in the 90s. 1990 to be

today, make up about half of his sales.

exact.

And what an influence that had on David’s

Another benefit to his personal sales

work.

Less time. More responsibilities.

Less

pitches was the fact that clients enjoyed

opportunity to paint on location. More studio work.

interacting with him as the artist of the work.

Yes, art became more of a career than a hobby.

Many referred friends and colleagues to him as

He became prolific, churning out up to ten

they shared the joy of having work being

pieces a month. A bit too commercial some may

personally created for them, framed, and

say, but the truth is that he was forced to paint out of

delivered, right to their homes.

necessity.

Being the head of a household, his

mindset regarding art was not the free abandon of the 80s. It is one thing to paint a painting but it is a completely different story when it comes to converting it into income.

David’s only solution

was to make cold calls, in person with painting in hand, to homes and businesses. He did this, day after day, week after week. As you would expect, this wasn’t easy. But after awhile it paid off.

Photograph of David in his 20s.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

SILHOUETTE Acrylic on Canvas 9” x 12” 1993

David’s work in the 90s became instinctive, and more developed.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

FESTIVAL OF UMBRELLAS Acrylic on Canvas 6” x 16” 1993

(Available as a print)

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

THIS IS what the Old Town Hall looked like in 1993. Colourful umbrellas lined the sidewalk of this historic building, which is located opposite St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Anglican Church on Lower Broad Street in the capital of Bridgetown. The Old Town Hall is of great historic significance, and sits within our UNESCO world heritage property. Built in 1730, it housed a vestry and the Town Jail. When David painted this scene, it was in disrepair. Restored in 2003, with the southern and eastern walls preserved, this structure now houses the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc., retail shops and a restaurant.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Into the Gallery

Through the Years

on the gallery walls. With each visit there was critique. The critique was difficult to hear but, nevertheless, I took it to heart and put it into practice.” Eventually, about one year later, his goal

David feels honoured that he has had great

was accomplished. He was accepted as one of

influences throughout his career as an artist.

the quorum of artists. His work was primarily

Canadian-Barbadian artist and gallery proprietrix,

miniature in size, compared to his larger work.

Darla Trotman was one of David’s mentors. He

A lot of it was pastel crayons on watercolour

remembers heading to Coffee and Cream, the

paper. (See Baby Girl and A Happy Childhood

gallery she used to run in St Lawrence Gap, Christ

on the next two pages). One of David’s most popular prints, was

Church, almost every night. “After soaking in all the wonderful images

called, Festival of Umbrellas, shown on the two

painted by great Barbadian artists such as Heather-

previous pages. This image was based on a

Dawn Scott and Darla herself (two of my favourites

host of miniature paintings of vendors selling

at that time) I would dream of my work being hung

their produce under colourful umbrellas.

I would bring painting after

“The series sold so well that I recall

painting for Darla in hope of an opportunity to

asking Darla when I should stop supplying her

show

admired.

with these pieces. And she told me to ‘ride the

Unsuccessful on my first try, I came again … and

wave while it is high.’ Hence the creation of

again, a bit daunted but determined to earn a spot

the print that celebrates this series.”

on those walls.

and

sell,

alongside

those

David Alleyne’s BABY GIRL

Barbados

Through the Years

Pastel on Watercolour Paper 6” x 5 ½” 1993

DavidA HAPPY Alleyne’s CHILDHOOD

Barbados

Through the Years

Pastel on Watercolour Paper 6” x 5 ½” 1993

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

A Wonderful Clientele Bonnie Cole-Wilson is another to whom David offers much gratitude. Plying his trade in the 90s, he approached Casuarina Beach Club, the resort under her management that once operated in St

Lawrence Gap, Christ Church, where the resort, Sandals now stands. (Cole-Wilson was a lover of art and did much to encourage up and coming artists through the years). He nervously entered her office … and that was the beginning of an

artist-client relationship that entailed scores of paintings being acquired month after month to grace the bedrooms of that beautiful hotel. This arrangement lasted until the closure of the hotel in 2005.

Even today, David thanks God for his wonderful clientele and opportunities like these UNDER THE BREADFRUIT TREE Acrylic on Canvas 48” x 24” 1996

which had enabled him to support his family through the years. 21

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

PITCHING MARBLES is not as common today as in bygone days, neither are jumping rope, playing ball, and hand clapping games. This is because technology has taken over. However, when video games are destroyed and are rendered irreplaceable or when living quarters become too crowded or too hot, the outdoors beckon village children to traditional games in shaded lanes, under breadfruit trees, and on grassy fields. These activities offer a great alternative, allowing for exercise and healthy interaction.

PITCHING MARBLES Acrylic on Canvas 48” x 36” 1996

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

CRICKET IN THE DISTRICT Acrylic on Canvas 1990s

REAL CRICKET LOVERS, we Barbadians are. Here, the village children in Scotland District, got together for a good game. A good game nowadays is one played on the Wii or a PlayStation console. The Scotland District runs through the parishes of St John, St Joseph, and St Andrew. Unlike the rest of Barbados, which is covered with limestone sediments up to 300 feet thick, this area is composed of clay stone, chalk and volcanic ash. Oil has even formed from some of the rock layers and is seen on the surface on some occasions. “I utilized a coarse weave canvas which had a really good feeling against the brush. This texture did not allow for much detail in the faces of the children, and the colours lack my usual bright hues. However, the effect was perfect as the earth tones to which I resorted, reflected the feeling of the Scotland District.”

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

TIME TO GO OUT

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

1996

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

MY BLACK BELLY SHEEP - 1996 Acrylic on Canvas (Available as a print)

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK ALL IN A DAY’S WORK Acrylic on Canvas 1997

Quiz #1: Name this Bridgetown street. David painted this in the 90s. (See answer overleaf)

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Answer #1: Suttle Street, Bridgetown

SUTTLE STREET Acrylic on Canvas 48” X 36” (1990s)

This almost forgotten street is located behind the City Centre car park in Bridgetown. Called Suttle Street, it was once a bit more lively, with merchandise displayed on the sidewalk. Remember those dependable cobweb brooms? They are fast becoming extinct. 28

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

EAST COAST JOURNEY

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

1990s

STANDPIPE PARLOUR Acrylic on Canvas 2003

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

The Standpipe According to the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, when piped water was first introduced in Barbados in 1861, 400 standpipes were installed island wide. This was to allow people access to clean running water at a time when most homes did not have this convenience. Situated at the centre of the village, residents would collect water in buckets on a daily basis and take them home for the purpose of household chores. Sometimes activities like bathing, washing and even grooming took place right at the standpipe. As village folk congregated here, this became the place to socialize and catch up on the latest gossip. Initially, water was retrieved from a large metal cylinder to which a faucet was attached. Later, however, the standpipe (an abbreviation for standard pipe) was set in cement, as seen in the painting on the opposite page. Since running water is now common place in most homes, many standpipes were turned off and only a few remain today. “This is the bygone Barbados which I experienced as a child. A less common occurrence as years went by. Since late 2015, however, there has been much water shortage in certain rural areas, extending to the southern parish of Christ Church in 2016. This has resulted in many Barbadians once again, resorting, to collecting water at standpipes. “The woman in this picture was so engrossed in her activity that she did not notice when this photograph was taken.”

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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Through the Years

CART RIDE AT SIX MENS - 2008 Acrylic on Canvas (Available as a print)

Quiz #2: Can you guess the location of this scene? (See answer: overleaf)

A NEW DAWN Acrylic on canvas 40” X 30” 2010

David Alleyne’s

Answer #2: Hincks Street, Bridgetown

Barbados

“In the beginning of my painting career, I was passionate about derelict structures. I find that in recent times I am being drawn back to such scenes where I can use a palette knife to render these types of subjects.”

Through the Years

David painted a series based on A NEW DAWN because something about this limestone ruin was mesmerising. Imagine, long ago, this building (to the left of the road) was fully utilised. Now, it goes mostly unnoticed to those who pass by, even though it stands erect in full view of Bridgetown commuters who regularly travel along Hincks Street in Bridgetown.

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

THE MONKEY AND THE FRUIT Acrylic on canvas 2010

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

FOLLOWING MAAA

Acrylic on Canvas

30” x 40”

Through the Years

2010

(Available as a print)

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

A PIECE OF PARADISE

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

30” x 40”

2010

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

PALM WAY

Acrylic on Canvas

30” x 40”

2010

(Available as a print)

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

EASY PICKINGS - 2010 Acrylic on Canvas 30” x 40” (Available as a print)

THE RED EYE Acrylic on Canvas 2010

PALM GARDEN Acrylic on Canvas 2010

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

A BEAUTIFUL PLACE

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

36” x 48”

2011

Nature’s garden. Created by God’s hand. If you are a visitor, you can treat yourself to a relaxing drive through Barbados’ scenic countryside, where you will see sights like this. David cannot quite remember this exact location but believes it is Ayshford, St Thomas.

THE BELLE AT BALLS Acrylic on Canvas 40” x 30”

“This is the bell that hangs in the mill wall at Balls Plantation, Christ Church. “As a nurseryman who is thrilled to have regularly participated in their annual Flower Show since the turn of the 21st century, I noticed the beauty of this unused bell on the grounds of the plantation. I snapped the picture and later painted it with a dove in flight, inserted to give a sense of peace and hope.”

David Alleyne’s

ABANDONED PAST - 2012 Acrylic on Canvas 30” x 40” (Available as a print)

Barbados

Through the Years

STRUCTURES LIKE THIS ARE CALLED SLAVE HUTS. Utilized for accommodation during slavery, these buildings were previously designed with thatched roofs and dirt floors. Most are abandoned but some have been refurbished and are occupied.

BEACH BEAUTY Acrylic on Canvas 2012 (Available as a print)

Beautiful west coast beaches (like the one on the left) provide calm conditions for sea bathers; while the rugged east coast (opposite page), facing the Atlantic Ocean, experiences rough waters.

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

BEAUTIFUL EAST COAST - 2012 Acrylic on Canvas (Available as a print)

Chattel houses are made from wood, and were originally placed on temporary stone foundations. During times of plantocracy, these structures were designed to be easily dismantled so the plantation workers who occupied them could move the house when they changed plantations. Today, many chattel houses are placed on permanent foundations.

HOUSE ON THE MOUND Acrylic on canvas 30â&#x20AC;? x 15â&#x20AC;? 2012 (Available as a print)

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

BLACK BELLY SHEEP FAMILY Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48” 2012

The BARBADOS BLACK BELLY SHEEP is an indigenous product of Barbados – a mixture of the European wool sheep and the African hair sheep. This “super” breed is superior in taste, leather, milk and so much more.

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

INTO THE SUNSET - 2012 Acrylic on Canvas (Available as a print)

“Coco

Warrior

portrait to date.

favourite

COCO WARRIOR Acrylic on Canvas 2012

It gave me the

opportunity to get back to painting anatomy, not one of my regular subjects, as I am more of a landscape artist. Coco Warrior became a series, with my very first being purchased by Scotiabank. It still

hangs in their Broad Street,

Bridgetown branch. “The coconut vendor featured in Coco Warrior was a fixture in the Sunset Crest area on Barbados’ west coast, before he died. As a master with the machete, he would throw coconuts into the air, slashing them on the way down. To see him was a spectacular sight. Sadly, it is said that he lost a finger during one of his escapades.”

David working on one of his “Coco Warrior” studies.

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

OLD TIME HARVEST

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

2014

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Cane Harvesting Prior to tourism, it was sugar cane upon which we depended. Plantation work was familiar, as the island also produced tobacco and cotton during slavery. Sugar was initially used as fuel, for feedstock, and in rum production but by 1644 sugar was being exported. During the 1980s, the high cost of sugar production and the drop in sugar prices on the international market led to the decline of the industry. Today, only one working sugar factory remains in operation - Portvale in St James. Locals and visitors are welcome to visit Portvale and browse through The Sir Frank Hutson Museum. Numerous artifacts, photographic murals and even an old boiling house are on display at the museum. “I took the photo of these cane cutters before the mechanical cane harvesters largely replaced manual labour. Now, manual labour is used chiefly where the terrain is unable to facilitate heavy

machinery. “I just loved this donkey cart (“dray cart” as we say) because it had an interesting wooden Vshaped carrier at the back. I recently noticed that there is hardly a donkey cart to be found in Barbados, now-a-days.”

LIGHTHOUSE AT ATLANTIC SHORES, CHRIST CHURCH Acrylic on Canvas 2014

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

A BUSY DAY AHEAD Acrylic on CanvasThrough the Years 2014

LIGHTHOUSE AT NORTH POINT, ST LUCY Acrylic on Canvas 2014

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

CRICKET IN THE DISTRICT Acrylic on Canvas (Year unknown)

BEACH CRICKET

Acrylic on Canvas

36” X 48”

2015

“Notice the vibrant colours I utilized for this scene? They reflect sunny days, happiness, friends, family and good times, all against the backdrop of bright blue sea and sky. This painting contrasts with the cricket scene on page 23, which displayed an earthy palette that gives us that warm, homey village feeling.”

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Old Pondside “Pondside is located on

lower Bay

Street, on the outskirts of the capital of Bridgetown. “I

couldn’t

resist

painting

‘Old

Pondside’ which so aptly captured the day to day life of the people of this area.

“Now the area has been removed and replaced

multistoried

OLD PONDSIDE

Acrylic on Canvas

2015

government

housing in the photograph below.”

The exact scene I painted was located here, just about where the basketball court is seen.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

BEACH HOUSE - 2016 Acrylic on canvas 30” x 15” (Available as a print)

Through the Years

David Alleyne’s

FIERY SKY Acrylic on Canvas 36” x 60” 2016

Barbados

Through the Years

BARBADIAN SUNSETS blaze all year round, painting majestic skylight pictures for all to enjoy.

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ICY SCAPE Acrylic on Canvas 2015

Barbados

Through the Years

Lemair Channel, Antarctica Photo reference provided by Jim Borowski.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

THE POND AT CODRINGTON COLLEGE Acrylic on canvas 48” x 36” 2016 There are many religions practised in Barbados. Approximately 95 percent profess to be Christians, of which there are many denominations. Other religions include Judaism, Islam, Hinduism Bahai and Rastafarianism. Codrington College is an Anglican theological college located at Sargeant Street, St. John. It was named after Christopher Codrington III (1668 – 1710), a former Governor General of the Leeward Islands. He left instructions after his death that the plantation be utilized for higher learning. Codrington College was officially opened in 1745, after 30 years of delays caused by drought, economic depression and other challenges. Source: http://www.codrington.org/site/ index.php/historical-overview.

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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Through the Years

Quiz #3: What is the most reoccurring element in Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paintings apart from the chattel house and the human presence? (See answer on page 64)

BARBADOSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gOlD

MOSES DavidBAJAN Alleyne’s Acrylic on Canvas

Barbados

Through the Years

30” x 40” 2016

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Answer #3: The Barbados Black Belly Sheep, of course. Everyone knew that, right? Everyone except David, that was until a while back when he overheard someone commenting, “Wait, he got dem in de picture, again?”

Soooo … this is an entire chapter dedicated to our amazing home-grown, Barbados Black Belly Sheep, one of the key elements in the development of this country; and to our own John Vaughan, a local agriculturalist, who is doing all he can to build this robust industry.

David Alleyne’s

The Story of the Barbados Black Belly Sheep featuring John Vaughan

Barbados

Through the Years

Inscribed in the national anthem of Barbados are the words, “strict guardians of our

heritage” referring to all Barbadians.

every nation on earth, Barbados possesses great riches that should truly be guarded by her people.

These are found in the white sand

beaches, crystal clear waters, high literacy rate,

friendly people and cohesive family structures. Yet each of these aspects of our beloved

“This is a remarkable sheep. According to

country can easily be erased if we care little

research, different from any other sheep in the

about its preservation. Garbage and pollution

world. I call it Barbados’ Gold”.

can quickly depreciate our coasts; a lack of

dedication and appreciation for learning can obliterate our education system; and busy lifestyles and materialism can surely destroy the social fabric of our nation. Unfortunately, as we commemorate our 50th Anniversary of

Independence, evidence of degradation is clearly visible. - John Vaughan, Senior Agricultural Assistant, Ministry of Agriculture, Barbados

Nationalism spurs most of us to defend the country when it is criticised, maligned or as Bajan’s say, unfaired in some way. Not many 65

MAMA AND HER SHEEP Acrylic on Canvas 36” x 24” 2016

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

however, will go to great lengths to do so if it

was a good life for the youngster. He enjoyed

meant

learning about agriculture from his father as

constant

challenges

and

lifelong

sacrifice.

there were scores of sheep, cows, and pigs to

In this chapter, we feature John Vaughan, one of the island’s sentinels, who goes above and beyond the call of duty to watch over one of the treasures of Barbados - the indigenous

tend … and more chickens, turkeys and ducks than could be counted. The approximately 11 acres on which he grew, was also well utilized

by the growing of crops like sugar cane, sweet potatoes, eddoes, yams; and short term crops

Barbados Black Belly Sheep.

such as pumpkin, peas and bananas. Not to be forgotten is the wide variety of fruit trees that

Who is John Vaughan?

were scattered on the property in profusion.

John David Vaughan was born in 1956 in the

Of his 11 siblings, John was the only one

eastern parish of St Andrew, to Frederick Arthur

who took to the land and never looked back.

Alonza Vaughan and Ercil Eurelene Vaughan.

After leaving school, he was fortunate to find a

They lived in the Scotland District, The Food

job

Basket of Barbados, where the soil was rich and

Agricultural

land plentiful.

Memorial School in St Joseph.

As a young child, he showed

teaching

Physical

Science

Education Grantley

and Adams

He loved

great interest in his father’s day to day activities

children and agriculture but he desired to spend

which meant caring for the animals they reared

more of his time in the field, getting his hands

and being “in the ground” as they say. This life

dirty while practising the science of farming.

David Alleyne’s

THE FLOCK NEAR THE WOODS Acrylic on Canvas 30” x 40” 2016

Barbados

Through the Years

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

As soon as a vacancy opened at the Ministry of

Goode, recognised the value of the Black Belly.

Agriculture, he applied, was hired, and the rest

He even had his own stock to prove it. Dr

is history.

While there, the British Council

Goode was well aware that many breeders

offered him a three-year scholarship. This was

around the globe began mixing the Barbadian

1978, and the experience was life changing.

breed with other strong breeds such as the

Skills learnt during that time took him to a

Dorset and Suffolk, attempting to produce an

whole new level of expertise and fostered an

even better sheep.

even greater love and respect for farming.

miserably, however, resulting in over 60%

As time went on, Vaughan’s attention was drawn to the study of one particular animal – the indigenous, peculiar and even mysterious Barbados Black Belly Sheep.

This breed is

lauded as being a superior breed that experts

These experiments failed

mortality, leaving our hardy local Black Belly ahead of the flock.

It was Dr Goode who

cautioned Vaughan, and urged him to protect this animal by keeping careful records of the breeding process.

throughout the world have agreed to be

Soon, thereafter, Dr Helen Swartz, state

outstanding in so many ways, such as the

sheep, goat and small livestock expert of

quality of its meat, skin, and milk.

Lincoln University, Missouri, USA, came on

Over the years, other scientists have

board. Between 1984 and 1991, she worked

assisted the Ministry of Agriculture in their

tirelessly with the ministry to establish its own

quest to maintain and preserve a flock of

comprehensive

purebred indigenous Black Belly Sheep.

programme.

computerized

breeding

1981 North Carolina stockman, Dr Lemuel 69

THE ORIGIN AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE BARBADO

EUROPEAN WOOL SHEEP

• Mothering Ability • Productivity

BARBA BLACK BEL

• Milk Ability

• Hairiness • Adaptability

• Hardiness • Longevity • Colour AFRICAN HAIR SHEEP

• Taste 70

OS BLACK BELLY SHEEP

ADOS LLY SHEEP

MOTHERING ABILITY

PRODUCTIVITY

COLOUR

Breeds all year round. Producing 3 crops of lambs in 2 years vs. 3 crops in 3 years for the typical African Hair Sheep.

Production is based on lambing, and the more lambs the greater profit.

Typically brown with a black belly and black colour markings around its eyes, nose and muzzle. It has a brown tail down to its knee hocks.

MILK ABILITY Multiple births. This sheep has an average of 2 ½ sheep per lambing. Other hair sheep produce 1 lamb at a time. The Ministry of Agriculture has recorded 6 lambs in one lambing.

HAIRINESS Hairy, not woolly.

ADAPTABILITY Able to live in different climates and conditions. Grows an extra layer of hair in colder temperatures.

Nutrients surpass those in goat’s milk. HARDINESS Resistant to pest and disease.

White is an undesirable characteristic. Sheep with white colouring are sent to the abattoir to be used as meat.

LONGEVITY General ability to breed, produce offspring and raise them without losing any lambs. Average lifespan of the hairy sheep is 8 – 12 years. The Barbados Black Belly lives up to 10 comfortably and has been known to live 18 years.

TASTE Meat is lean and superior in taste. Tasters in England, Canada and United States agree that it is of the highest quality.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Origin A derivative of the European wool sheep and African hair sheep (both brought to Barbados during the time of slavery) this

super breed has the best of both worlds, maintaining the beneficial characteristics of each breed.

Weight At maturity (3 years) ewes weigh 130 – 145 pounds while rams are 275 – 300 pounds.

“My personal and professional goal is to see the Barbados Black Belly Sheep patented and registered as a national breed, belonging to the people of Barbados.”

Some of the Barbados Black Belly Sheep stock located at the Greenland Livestock Research Station in St Andrew.

John Vaughan

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Population

Agricultural

Development

and

Marketing

There are an estimated 15 000 Black Belly

Princess Alice Highway, Bridgetown.

Sheep on the island, a drop from 35 000 in the

Carmeta’s, lamb is presented in traditional cuts

70s. One of the main reasons for the decline is

and even in novel forms such as ham, burgers

lack of succession. Careers in agriculture are

and sausages, making it a more versatile

not perceived to be attractive or profitable. As

product for meat lovers.

Corporation Retail outlet, Carmeta’s, located at

sheep rearers pass away, their children tend to choose other professions over farming.

By-Products

The goal of the Ministry of Agriculture is

The high standard of the Barbados Black

to reach and maintain a population of 50 000.

Belly Sheep extends to its by-products with the

90% of the meat has a ready market each year

leather being second in quality, only to the

as it is purchased and consumed by local

kangaroo; and its milk, healthier than that of

Indians for their festivals.

goat.

The amount of animals on the island is

Entrepreneurs are using the milk in

not enough to sufficiently supply the Barbadian

soaps, cheese, ice-cream, and fudge.

market. As a result, meat is not available in

Barbadian

supermarkets but limited

lamented that they cannot get enough of the

to the Barbados

entity,

One

Earth Botanicals , has

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

VISITING AUNTIE

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

24” x 36”

2016

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

milk ingredient to fill the needs of their

artificial insemination; and embryo transfer.

European market.

The laboratory in which these activities took

Very important to the heart of John Vaughan is semen and embryo export. Farmers are discouraged from exporting live sheep and are asked to maintain their stock and focus on export the semen and embryos. By doing this, one animal would be able to earn more income

place

was

established

with

the

collaboration

the

IICA in

Ministry of

Agriculture. IICA

has

also

contributed

the

development of the sheep leather industry here in Barbados.

When the hides of the Black

Belly Sheep were sent to Canada to be tanned

than if it is sold.

and returned, it was IICA that orchestrated this endeavour.

The Role of the InterAmerican Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA)

They have also co-ordinated the Impact programme, which is an ongoing livestock training programme for farmers and would-be farmers who wish to attain Caribbean-wide certification. John is involved as one of the

The IICA has been greatly involved in the tutors in the programme. advancement of the Barbados Black Belly Sheep. It was this institution that brought two

It is as a result of contributors, like the

Mexican specialists to Barbados to conduct

IICA, that so much progress has been made in

training

the development and maintenance of this breed

sessions

processing, and

storing

the

collecting,

sheep semen;

on the island. 75

David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Barbados

Through the Years

The Future of Barbados

students at the Samuel Jackman Prescod

John Vaughan is grateful to the team who works

Barbados.

Polytechnic in a drive to build a better

with him on a daily basis, especially in the area

John Vaughanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s personal and professional

of Black Belly Sheep farming. The knowledge

goal is to see the Barbados Black Belly Sheep

he has acquired during the 42 years in his field

patented and registered as a national breed,

at the Ministry of Agriculture is invaluable, and

belonging to the people of Barbados.

he wishes to utilize it for the benefit of

when it is, he would be satisfied that his

Barbados.

lifelong work with this breed would profit his

Many individuals, companies and

entities, both here and overseas have attempted

And

country and all Barbadians, and for all time.

to persuade him to work with them, rearing

their flocks or assisting with by-products in return for very attractive financial packages. This dedicated Bajan, however, feels that his life would be more meaningful if it is used for the development of his nation. He is committed

to the education of the new generation so that they value agriculture as much, or even more, than he does.

Presently participating in a

European Development Fund programme, John is able to pass on his expertise to tertiary level

BARBADOS BLACK BELLY SHEEP QUALITY LEATHER PRODUCTS.

THANK YOU

DAviDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to look at some of my work in David Alleyneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Barbados - Through the Years. I am honoured that you celebrated with me, 50 years as an independent nation. Thanks to all my valuable clients who have put up with me knocking at their doors over and over again. I, especially, thank those in my early days who bought my work before anyone in the art world knew my name. And thanks to those who helped me when things got tough along the way. May God bless you all!

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

MUSIC ROCKS

Acrylic on Canvas

Through the Years

18” x 24”

2016

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Declarations over Barbados for our Golden Jubilee Independence by Senator Apostle Doctor David Durant WE DECLARE, in this our 50th Jubilee Year of Independence, that Jesus Christ is Lord over the island of Barbados. We return this nation to the sovereign lordship, rule, reign and dominion of Jesus Christ. According to Your Word, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He has chosen as His own inheritance”. And we further declare that the fear of the Lord is restored in this island, Barbados. Restore reverence and respect for You in the island, dear God. We place the eleven parishes in Barbados under the shadow of the Almighty and declare that the Lord is our shield, our fortress, our hiding place, He is our keeper, our defender, our refuge, our rock, our shade, our shelter, and our stronghold. WE DECLARE that the Sovereign Almighty God, El Shadai, is providing for and protecting this island, Barbados. Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. You are a shield all around us; exposing every evil plot and causing every weapon that is formed against us NOT to prosper in the Name of Jesus Christ. GOD, You have been our guide for the past three hundred years and as a nation we give special thanks to You for these past fifty years as a free, independent, democratic, sovereign nation, having a clean break from the spirit of colonialism. DEAR GOD, cause a hunger and thirst for righteousness to fill our island. Fill our hearts with a desire for more of You. Let healing, deliverance, signs, wonders and miracles follow those who believe and may the favour of Almighty God shower upon this island exponentially, in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen! A blessed 50th Golden Jubilee Independence, BARBADOS! Restoration Ministries International, Gunsite Road, Brittons Hill, St Michael, Barbados, West Indies. Tel: 246-435-3488. Email address: restorationministries@caribsurf.com.

David Alleyne’s

Barbados

Through the Years

Acknowledgements Production

Participators

Ethan Alleyne: Development of online presence. Graphic design assistance and consultation. Proof reading.

Victor Collector, Photo reference for “East Coast Journey”.

Jim Borowski, Photo reference for Lemair Channel’s “Icy Scape”.

Camille Alleyne: Writing, producing and marketing. Cover and page design, layout and art work. Project co-ordination.

Ricardo Agard, Consultation.

Natalie Campbell Proof reading

Zoanne Evans, Director of Kids in Action. Consultation.

Contributors Senator Apostle Doctor David Durant Restoration Ministries International Gunsite Road Brittons Hill St Michael Barbados West Indies Tel: 246-435-3488 Email address: restorationministries@caribsurf.com

John Vaughan Senior Agricultural Assistant Greenland Livestock Research Station Ministry of Agriculture Greenland St. Andrew West Indies Tel: 246-422-9224, 246-422-9020 Email address: jv_vaughan@hotmail.com 81

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THE MEDIA PLACE We wish to thank all those who supported the Golden Project, by reading David Alleyne’s Barbados – Through the Years. The Golden Project comprises of special work, activities and products by David Alleyne and friends – as we continue to celebrate Barbados’ 50th milestone. As you celebrate with us, remember to respect copyright. This publication and the works by David Alleyne must not be shared, reproduced, copied or sold without permission. All rights reserved. Thank you for your understanding. Wishing you all the best! Camille Alleyne Production Manager THE MEDIA PLACE

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