Dale Kelley, painting by Dinzey Ryan

Christophe Harbour is pleased to introduce its luxury retail shops launching this month in the marina village. In this week’s profile, we’re excited to showcase local art gallery DALE:

The vision of St. Kitts native and artist Dale Kelley, DALE original art and style showcases distinctive pieces handcrafted in St. Kitts and Nevis.

DALE features fine art, sculpture, pottery, leather goods, jewelry, glassworks and more from several artists who are members of Dale’s local art collective, iFlamboyant.

Philanthropic by nature, she began iFlamboyant several years ago to grow awareness of and support for local artists and artisans in St. Kitts and Nevis. Each year at iFlamboyant’s annual art show, the artist collective raises funds to support one budding artist in the group. In years past, they raised enough to purchase a chainsaw and other tools for a wood sculptor and in the future, they are hoping to purchase a new kiln for use by local potters. iFlamboyant have also assisted with the funding of materials and art supplies.   

With her mega-watt smile and larger-than-life personality, Dale is a natural leader. She had a successful career in the fashion industry that took her far from her island home from New York to London, but a devastating bout with breast cancer called her home. “I swore that if I could get through this illness and get back home that I would dedicate my life to giving back,” said Dale. And thus iFlamboyant and a budding idea for DALE was born.

DALE’s myriad art pieces include contemporary pottery in hues simulating the nearby Caribbean Sea and a collection of jewelry ranging from handmade silver to handcrafted pieces incorporating local sea glass. For anyone seeking larger, authentic pieces to complement their homes, DALE will also feature a number of hand-carved wood and stone sculptures with tribal motifs.

To say, DALE is 100% local would be an understatement. Not only are the items on offer all made locally, the local Craft House created the store’s interior and Dale, a milliner and potter herself, is handcrafting all the light fixtures. Her plans for DALE include monthly featured artist wine and cheese receptions, artists in residence, demonstrations and classes, and more.

DALE will open in the Christophe Harbour marina village December 27, 2016 - just in time for the annual St. Kitts and Nevis Carnival celebration. Store hours Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm and Sunday from 12:00 noon until 5:00 pm.