KOTA KINABALU: Creative workshops, arts and culture talks as well as art exhibitions can be expected at the Jesselton Artisan Market (JAM) which is happening this weekend, in conjunction with the Kaamatan festival month.

       The monthly event, which features skilled artisans and their creations, aims to give some cultural flavour to its May edition in celebration of the harvest festival.

       Taking place tomorrow and on Sunday at The Walk, Riverson downtown, over 100 artisan and food and beverage (F&B) brands will have booths in the market, the largest number so far for this year’s event.

       Local musicians will take to the stage to showcase their talents, too, said JAM organiser Aaron Lam in a statement.

       “Kaamatan is a major festival celebrated here in Sabah and we would like to take this opportunity to introduce the culture through art talks, exhibitions and workshops conducted by talented artists and cultural revival artisans.

       “The highlight would also include native cuisines that can be sampled and bought at the market.

       “We would like to invite the public to attend the art talks such as ‘Cultural Revival and the Role of Artists’, and to experience weaving or hands-on batik and watercolour painting during the workshops,” added Lam.

       A small-scale launch of the programme is also set for tomorrow at noon.

       Kota Kinabalu MP Chan Foong Hin, Kapayan assemblyman Jannie Lasimbang as well as two of last year’s Unduk Ngadau (beauty pageant) finalists, Tracie Sinidol of Tambunan and Mella Christian Anderson from Matunggong, will be in attendance.