One of my favourite places to go, when travelling is the market. You get to really experience the culture, cuisine and community. Because we seldom leave our homestead I seldom get to explore new places. Every week I can appreciate others #MarketFriday initiated by @dswigle but today I get to make my own contribution!
Imagine my surprise finding a day market when wondering the quaint streets of Knysna. My husband was doing two days of training so I explored with my little boy. Despite being less than 5 hours from our dry inland homestead this coastal town is world's away from what we are used to. It is lush, green, humid... and filled with activity both local and tourist!
The Knysna Market is more like an exotic outdoor gallery. It has a beautiful selection of art on display. Most of the items made by people from the rural villages who need to make an income to support extended families.
Often they have very limited education and no training in their specific art, outside of what they learn from parents and grandparents.
The tools of their trade as well as the supplies are often made with the bare essentials that they can find as well as afford. The creativity and pride in their work is impressive!
Apart from the very popular South African themed paintings, murals and tablecloths, you can buy beautifully carved wooden bowls and African animal replicas. There is painted clay pottery. Intricately woven bags and skirts. Unique baskets hand woven. Even musical instruments.
My favourite part is that the artists themselves are often the one manning the stall. And they are as colourful as their work. They enthusiastically explain the origins and intent behind their work. While there is no food available in this market, the experience is a flavour filled one.
As an artist (who seldom gets to paint) I can really appreciate the effort put into each item. This market was a unique experience. Although I am South African it felt like I was a tourist on some exotic island.
