Arts and Crafts:

The art and crafts done by local Turks and Caicos residents are influenced by neighbouring Haiti and Dominican Republic as well as, of course, the turquoise waters, deep colours and richness of the beauty of the flora and fauna found on all these glorious Islands. Watercolours and oils are prominent forms of expression, but also popular are silk paintings, conch shell art, metal works, handmade jewelery, weaving of straw and palm leaves into hats, fans, basket and other crafts are showcased in local galleries such as The Bamboo Gallery (by appointment only), Anna’s Gallery, Fisherman Marine Art as well as in boutiques and gift shops throughout the country. Don’t miss an opportunity to soak in the rich talents offered by the craftspeople and artists of TCI.

Movies:

The LRaye Cinema is located in Windsor Place on Leeward Highway on Providenciales. They play newly released Hollywood hits in the modern Cineplex style theatres.

If you’d prefer to enjoy your movie watching from the comfort of home, Video Wave DVD Rentals is found in Turtle Cove, Providenciales. Open daily, they have a large selection of new releases, comedy, adventure, kids’ movies, etc.

Music:

‘Ripsaw’ is a unique style of music that originated right here in TCI, specifically in Middle and North Caicos. You take an old carpenter’s handsaw, add in a long metal scraper such as a nail or knife blade to drag or “rip” along it, and with the bend of the saw you’re playing TCI’s own ‘Ripsaw’. Add in the flavour and influence from other nearby countries like Haiti and Dominican Republic, the beats of the goatskin drum, maracas and acoustic guitar, and you’ve got a ‘Ripsaw’ jam session!

Also popular in the music scene are Jamaican Reggae, Bahamian Calypso and Eastern Caribbean Soca, all heard at a Junkanoo. Junkanoo is a music and dance celebration, the largest one held on New Year’s Day where participants compete for most elaborate, colourful costumes or best rhythm section as they parade down the streets, dancing and singing, portraying outrageous characters and celebrating the beauty of all culture to be found on these Islands.

To authentically participate in the Junkanoo it is suggested you warm up for the gyration of the hips for the dance called “Wine-Up” or the waltz-like moves of the “Shati” and especially the heel-toe steps of the “Conch Style” dance to Ripshaw.

Theatre:

The Turks and Caicos Friends of the Arts promote the appreciation of performing and visual arts year round, inviting international artists to the Islands as well as encouraging and providing scholarships for local talent. Events include plays, musicals, choral performances, ballets and live music. Visit their site for more information: http://www.tcfaf.com

Turks and Caicos National Museum:

Opened in 1991, the Turks & Caicos National Museum is located in a colonial-era history Guinep House on Front Street in the capital of Cockburn Town, on Grand Turk Island. The Museum is home to research projects covering a range of local history, including slavery, the salt industry, archaeology, shipwrecks and more. The Museum also houses a library, research facilities, the ruins of the museum garden and gift shop and encourages the children of the TCI to learn and celebrate their national heritage! Open to the public Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, the Museum encourages visitors to tour the historic building and welcome you to participate in the living history of these beautiful islands.