Our Fondok section takes us to the Morne Pitault district in Le Lamentin, to Jean-Louis Marie-Rose, a lover of “Bakwa” (a tree from Martinique).
Jean-Louis Marie-Rose plants, weaves hats and other creations and cooks Bakwa.
It is at his home, in the Morne Pitault district, that the man receives us. In his garden the pandanus reigns supreme, commonly called “bakwa” in Martinique.
Ahe makes vinegar with the seeds consumes fruit or makes jams or flours used in particular to make bread. Also consume the white core of the leaves in salads such as “coconut kale”.
Jean-Louis Marie-Rose also uses the leaves to create real works of art. The man has done a lot of research with the elders, he knows the right time to collect them, to prevent them from being attacked by insects or rotting.
Jean-Louis Marie-Rose works at the Bakwa.
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Master many weaving techniques and make traditional hats such as the famous tall and pointed fisherman’s hat or that of the sugar cane cutter.
Jean-Louis Marie-Rose also creates ceremonial hats and jewellery. It is in fact a hatter who uses “bakwa” as others use straw, felt or other materials. He has no limits in his creativity.
Jean-Louis Marie-Rose has already written two technical books on the “bakwa” with the help of Henry Delinde, heritage curator. His goal is to pass on his knowledge and his passion.
