Wood carvers at the Bakau Craft Market have expressed concern over the ongoing global economic melt down and the high cost of basic commodities.

Wood carvers made these remarks in a recent chat with the Arts and Culture   ahead of preparations for the 2009/2010  tourist season. The Bakau Craft Market wood carvers spoke extensively on their profession, trade, the tourist season, especially the 2008/2009 season, cost of basic commodities among others.

Omar Jallow, professional wood carver, who got into the business at a very tender age, described the art of wood carving as lovely and interesting.
"I love the art of wood carving since when I was going to school. Thanks to God now that I am a professional wood carver. I can now carve almost anything out of the wood," he explained.

However, the professional wood carver did not hesitate to describe the current economic melt down as sad and a threat to his work. According to him, it is now extremely difficult for an average wood carver to sustain himself and his family within the profession. This is mainly due to low customer turn out and the high cost of basic commodities in the market. Mr Omar Jallow, expressed hoped that the 2009/2010 would be better. Many other wood carvers who spoke to the Arts and Culture expressed similar comments.