Located in the heart of San Pedro Town, The Bamboo Artist is one of Ambergris Caye’s newest and most creative experiences. More than a gallery showcasing distinctive bamboo artworks and custom framing services, The Bamboo Artist also offers an engaging, story-driven art class. The hands-on experience is rooted in sustainability, culture, and the life’s work of a highly respected international artist.
The Bamboo Art Class begins not with tools but with context. Guests are welcomed by Nicole, the wife of artist Omo Otaylor, who opens the session with an introduction to bamboo’s sustainability and the powerful story behind her husband’s work. Bamboo, she explains, is fast-growing, renewable, and deeply symbolic of resilience and adaptability, qualities that mirror Omo’s artistic journey.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Omo began his career as a traditional woodworker, mastering form and technique with natural materials. Over time, his practice evolved as he moved from wood to bamboo, driven by environmental awareness and a desire to explore new creative possibilities. His talent was recognized during a decade in Jamaica, where his bamboo art was celebrated for its refined craftsmanship, creative innovation, and strong cultural identity. His journey eventually led him to the United States, where his reputation continued to grow, earning him recognition as an artist who transforms a humble, sustainable material into contemporary works with global influence.
Following the introduction, the class moves into a relaxed, hands-on session suitable for all skill levels. Led by Omo, participants choose from four design options, select pre-cut bamboo pieces with naturally varied textures and tones, and begin assembling their artwork. With clear, step-by-step guidance, guests learn simple shaping, assembly, and finishing techniques. Light refreshments and drinks enhance the easygoing, social atmosphere, where conversation and creativity unfold naturally.
What makes this experience truly special is its depth. Guests are not simply making art; they are connected to a living story of sustainability, cultural exchange, and artistic evolution. At the end of the class, participants leave with a handcrafted bamboo artwork ready to travel, along with a deeper appreciation for bamboo as a material and for Omo Otaylor as an artist.
As a new business and experience on the island, The Bamboo Artist is already setting itself apart. For visitors to Ambergris Caye seeking something creative and unmistakably unique, it is a must-do addition to your island itinerary. The gallery is open 9AM to 6PM, Monday through Saturday. The two-hour classes are offered daily at 9AM and 3PM. For more information and to register, please visit https://bambooartist.com/a-taste-of-bamboo/ or their Facebook page @thebambooartist.
