SEYCHELLES CULTURE

For such a small country, Seychelles has a very vibrant arts scene that includes painters, sculptors, writers and poets, various craftsmen, musicians and dancers.

Painters and other artists have always been inspired by the natural, colourful beauty of the island. This has resulted in a wide variety of works, of different art styles such as printing and etching techniques, collages or object art, in which the most diverse means were used, such as watercolours, oil paints, acrylics, metals, aluminium, wood, textiles, lacquers, pastels or charcoal. Sculptors produce fine works of art from local wood, stone, bronze and cartonnage.

The Seychelles have always had a strong fascination and inspiration on local writers and poets. This has resulted in historical reports and fascinating works on the history of Company of these islands. The collection of short stories and poems, reflects the passion of these people.

Everywhere in the Seychelles you will find traditional handicrafts. Their work is as varied and diverse as the islands themselves. Objects are made from coconut shells or fibres, shells or coral, bamboo and metal, but also clothing, gold, silver and other jewellery or pottery can be found here.

Folklore & Dance

Music and dances have always been an integral part of Seychellois culture and festivities are now unimaginable without them. As in other areas of culture, African, Malagasy and European influences have mixed, accompanied by tambour and tam-tam drums and simple stringed instruments. The violin and guitar are relatively new, European components that give today's music its distinctive touch.
The lively Sega with its elegant hip swings and almost shuffling foot movements is just as popular as the traditional Moutya, an erotic, mysterious-looking dance that dates back to the times of slaves. In those times it was considered a means of expression for strong emotions and an outlet for the misfortune of the people.
Dances of European origin are the Kontredance and the Kanmtole. The kanmtole reminds of a Scottish country reel and is accompanied by banjo, accordion, violin and triangle. The complicated steps of the Kontredance originate from the French court and are danced to the sounds of banjo and triangle, with the 'comander' "leading" the dance.

Various traditional dance groups perform at local festivals, but also modern interpreters of jazz, reggae, country & western, hip hop, ballads or rock. There are several choirs on the island, which inspire with their hymns and chorales.

Her repertoire, to name but a few, includes traditional sacred music as well as gospel or folk.

In the relatively recent history of the Seychelles, the folklore of the island was handed down orally before television, radio and writing became a medium.

Over the years, some mythical creatures have made a particularly strong appearance in Seychellois folklore. For example, there is "Soungula", which is known for its wisdom and inventiveness in dealing with everyday problems of life. Some other dazzling mythical creatures are Bro Zako, Kader, Tizan and Kousoupa.

Some of the most famous fables and stories that are still told today date back to the days when there was no television and storytelling was not just for entertainment, but to give people values and practical advice about life on the island.

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