When you think of handcrafted Guyanese art, you think of authenticity, passion, and a deep connection to home. That’s exactly what Paintings & Crafts Co. embodies. What started as a simple Instagram page showcasing artwork has grown into a beloved small business, bringing local artistry to homes across Guyana and beyond.
The Growth of Paintings & Crafts Co.
“Crystel, my co-owner, suggested displaying some pieces on a shelf at Babe Cave,” Abigail recalls. “I happily agreed, and that opportunity changed everything.”
That one small step led to a giant leap in visibility. Soon, Paintings & Crafts Co. was expanding its product line and gaining a loyal customer base. Their ‘Animals of Guyana’ Ornaments became a hit, bringing a unique, handcrafted touch to holiday decor. This momentum opened doors to pop-up shops and expos, including the WeLift Expo, a platform for women in small business.
But success didn’t come without its hurdles. “Managing income as a small business can be unpredictable,” Abigail admits. “Balancing expenses while ensuring a steady cash flow is a challenge.” Juggling full-time jobs while running a creative business also means time management is crucial. And like any artist will tell you, creativity isn’t a faucet you can turn on at will. “Creative block is real, and it can be detrimental when we need to keep producing.”
Milestones That Made an Impact in the World of Guyanese Art
Through perseverance and passion, Paintings & Crafts Co. hit some major milestones:
The Launch of Wood Slices: “We wanted something unique for Christmas, and that’s how our wood slices came about,” Abigail shares. These custom-painted ornaments flew off the shelves, leading to the launch of the Guyana wood slices, a tribute to the country’s rich wildlife and landscapes.
Wooden Ornaments By Paintings & Crafts Co. WeLift 4 Expo: A massive networking opportunity that connected them with fellow artisans and potential collaborators.
Newsroom Interview: “This gave us a bigger platform to share our business with the country.” Exposure like this helped push Paintings & Crafts Co. into the national spotlight.
Kaieteur News & Guyana Standard Features: “I recall being in Pakuri, and an Indigenous resident recognized me from the article,” Abigail mentioned. Recognition at this level confirmed that their art was making waves.
The Heart of the Business: Customer Impact
Every piece from Paintings & Crafts Co. carries a story, and some of those stories are deeply personal. “I remember painting a pet portrait for a customer who had lost a puppy,” Abigail recalls. “She told me that having that portrait meant the world to her—it was like she could keep the puppy with her forever.”
That’s the power of art—it’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about memories, emotions, and creating something that truly resonates with people.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of Every Masterpiece
Ever wondered what goes into making one of these beautiful, handcrafted pieces? Here’s a peek behind the curtain:
Orders are divided based on painting style, skill, and time required.
Each piece starts with a detailed sketch, sometimes taking hours to perfect.
Depending on complexity, The painting process can take anywhere from two to six weeks.
Once completed, pieces are sent to Babe Cave for pickup or arranged for delivery by Crystel.
What’s Next for Paintings & Crafts Co.?
The vision? To cement Paintings & Crafts Co. as a staple in the local market. “We’re working on expanding our product line and establishing a strong brand identity,” Abigail shares.
Coming from a biology background, Abigail has a special love for painting Guyana’s rich flora and fauna. “We want to use our art to raise awareness about Guyana’s incredible biodiversity and how we can contribute to conservation efforts.”
For those who own a piece of their work, Paintings & Crafts Co. is more than just a business—it’s a way to carry a piece of home, no matter where they go.
Final Thoughts
From their humble beginnings to making a name in the local art scene, Paintings & Crafts Co. is proof that passion and perseverance can take you far. Whether you’re looking for a custom piece or just want to support local art, they’re a business worth watching.
Looking to own a piece of Guyana through art? Follow Paintings & Crafts Co. on Instagram and keep an eye out for their next collection!
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