Cecil Clarke, author of “Dominica: The Best Kept Secret”
Dominican photographer Cecil Clarke has just launched his second book, “Dominica: The Best Kept Secret,” which is more than just a collection of photographs; it is a comprehensive look at all facets of life in the Nature Isle.
Clarke, who recently held a launching ceremony for the book in Barbados following a successful launch in his native Dominica earlier in the year, stated that the project took about two years to complete and he had considerable help in bringing it all together.
“I recognised that there was a gap in terms of good photography in Dominica, and I wanted to capture all aspects of life on the island; its Creole heritage, cultural events such as the World Creole Music Festival, the Kalinago people, the Creole cuisine, as well as pay homage to some of our calypsonians, poets, and other creatives.
“In terms of gathering the material covering the island’s history and heritage, I got some assistance from (prominent Dominican historian) Lennox Honychurch, Dominica’s former Chief Cultural Officer, Raymond Lawrence, and in looking at how our culture has influenced our liturgy, I consulted Father Brancker John. I also utilized the services of other photographers, including Ashton Shillingford and another photographer who is based in England.”
Clarke noted he produced his first book, “Dominica: An Invitation to Indulge,” in 2008 as the Commonwealth of Dominica commemorated its 30th anniversary of independence. Over the years, he has also produced playing cards, postcards, and table mats featuring images of the country.
Speaking during the launching ceremony, Barbadian insurance executive Tyrone Lowe spoke of how he first met Clarke and also sang the praises of the publication.
“I was attending an insurance conference in Dominica earlier this year, where Cecil was selling copies of the publication at the venue. I thought the words of Dominica’s National Anthem were a fitting description of the book, as it speaks of beauty and wonder among other things. I commend Cecil for his artistry in capturing the photographs that make up this book, as it lives up to Cecil’s statement that he has dedicated his life to capturing all aspects of Dominica.
“This book jumps out at you as a beautiful capture of the island; when I look at the colour, the beauty, the images, I am impressed with what is reflected in terms of the culture, the beach outlines, the people, and so on.”
Cecil’s sister, Anna Maria Clarke, said her brother got into photography at an early age since their father was also involved in that field.
“Cecil took his first photograph when he was five years old, and at seven years old, he got his very first camera. At 16 years old, Eve’s Photo Studio was opened for him, and he still owns and operates that company to this day. From that point, he started taking photographs of church-related events—baptisms, first communions, weddings, funerals, etc.—as well as government events and carnivals. Eventually, he got into taking photographs of models, which I believe motivated him even more in terms of becoming a professional photographer!”
Meanwhile, lifelong friend Dr. Geoffrey Lafond said, “This book truly captures the essence of Dominica, and while it is called ‘Dominica: The Best Kept Secret,’ I am sure that after the launch of this book, Dominica won’t be a secret anymore. While this book is described as a ‘coffee table book,’ it is so much more than that. It is a history book that covers all aspects of Dominica’s history, nature, and culture, and a copy should be placed in every school and every library, not just in Dominica but across the Caribbean.”
The launch event took place at the Black Rock Cultural Centre and included performances from vocalists Maiella Best, Sharna Casimir, as well as the versatile singer and flugelhorn player Kweku Jelani.
(PR)