The Quadrille Couple

Watercolor Painting
on 100% cotton, cold-pressed watercolor paper
14" x 11" 

St. Croix is rich in culture and traditions - one of them is the Quelbe music that often accompanies the Quadrille dance. According to Kendell Henry - a USVI culture bearer and member of the band Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights - Quelbe music became the official music of the US Virgin Islands around 2003-2004. Quadrille dancing originated in France but became an integral part of the traditional folk dance of the island. It is often performed in a group and in open spaces, with a caller who calls out instructions to the dancers, and of course accompanied by live Quelbe music. 

If you ever visit St. Croix, try and not miss this lovely tradition.