By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
Art galleries can be intimidating. Hallowed showrooms where haute prices meet haughty attitudes. But not Martinique’s Boutique d’Art Porcelaine, where owner Danae Emmanuel has curated a collection of art, handicraft, home accessories and jewelry that is as accessible as it is attractive.
“We have items for serious collectors and for casual buyers,” she says of her Fort-de-France business. “We want everyone to appreciate our merchandise. So it’s OK to start by buying something small and then go from there. Or not!”
Above: Martinique’s Boutique d’Art Porcelaine (CJ Photo)
Emmanuel’s eclectic inventory includes work by about 20 Martiniquain nationals and residents: straw jewelry from Veronique Reunit; painted volcanic rock and stones by Adye; mixed media pieces from Christophe Mert; and organic, paraffin-free candles by Bakoua Collection.
And it comes at all price points. You can spend 4 euro for a handmade glass knife rest, or you can splurge on a 5,000 euro masterpiece of original art. The only thing you can’t do is buy online, because the gallery hasn’t yet started internet sales. But that’s just another reason to visit Martinique, non?