By: La Shawna Griffith
Nestled on Whitehall Main Road in St. Michael lies a creative oasis, unlike any other in Barbados. Medford Craft World is not just a shop, it is a living, breathing museum of Barbadian artistry, built from the ground up by one of the island’s most celebrated self-taught artists: Reginald “Reggie” Medford. His story, woven through years of grit, innovation, and relentless perseverance, embodies the true spirit of We Gatherin’ which is a celebration of Bajan resilience, ingenuity, and cultural pride.
Walking into Medford Craft World is a transformative experience. Visitors are immediately immersed in the world of mahogany craftsmanship, witnessing the magic unfold before their eyes. Reggie and his team of artisans use a technique he developed himself, it is one that is fast, precise, and uniquely Medford. “Everyone who comes and actually sees us in action goes away fascinated,” he says. “And the technique we use, you won’t see it anywhere else but here.”
This creative sanctuary offers more than just a showroom. It’s an open invitation to journey from tree to treasure. “We start from scratch,” Reggie explains. “Unlike many factories, we go out, find the tree, get government permission, bring it in, cut it ourselves [as] everything is handmade.” Visitors can walk through the compound, viewing piles of mahogany trees and roots in various stages of transformation. These very roots which are often discarded by others are the foundation of Reggie’s global recognition.
Most artists might overlook the twisted roots and stumps left behind after a tree is felled. But not Reggie. “Most people would say, ‘Get that out of here,’” he laughs. “I say, ‘Bring more!’” Where others see waste, he sees opportunity. “It’s so dirty and rustic. What could you ever do with this? But over the years, I’ve created some of the most amazing, distinct pieces from what others throw away.”
