Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts artist-in-residence Angela Golden Bryan led the ABC initiative to empower local third graders to explore, appreciate, and celebrate the unique heritage of the Virgin Islands. Through cultural immersion, artistic expression, and storytelling — and with the collaboration of her colleagues — the ABC book was successfully published in February 2025.
Bryan, executive director and founder of non-profit Fireburn Heritage, Inc., authored the ABC book as an educational program that culminated from Angela’s five-week residency at CMCARTS.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity. I am both humbled and honored by this meaningful project, which not only fosters cultural appreciation and storytelling skills but also ensures the preservation of our rich cultural tapestry for future generations,” Bryan said.
Bryan worked alongside “such esteemed individuals” as Professor Olasee Davis, CMCArts Educational Coordinator Jessica Parker White, and Art Director Danica David. “They bring their invaluable expertise and dedication to this initiative,” Bryan added.
Each week of her residency, Bryan read to the students from her children’s books, “James and the Fireburn” and the newly published, “Anna and the Goat Foot Woman.” Through this storytelling, students are exposed to Virgin Islands folklore and historical figures, a core value of Fireburn Heritage, Inc., Bryan shared.
In addition to cultural discovery hikes with Davis, students selected their letter of the alphabet, along with the item, person, or place that the letter represents. The schools selected for this year’s project are Claude O. Markoe, Alfredo Andrews, and Ricardo Richards Elementary Schools.
During the final week of the program, students completed their watercolor paintings and their research on the items they painted, which were included in the ABC book.
Bryan’s exploration into the project was also for her own experience, she said. “Growing up on St. Croix did not provide many opportunities. My mom was a single parent and she was not exposed to a lot.” When Bryan does projects, she said that they are things that she would have liked to have had as a child.
“There are so many ways that this program, which is amazing — as it is by itself — can be enhanced,” Bryan shared. That’s when she applied for a grant from the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands. “We can incorporate the contributors and upscale the whole program in a nutshell,” she said.
The project began in October 2024 with Bryan, given the task as artist-in-residence, to expose the children to the hiking, the storytelling, the art, and the celebration of culture that would trigger their imagination to produce such a “telling” document as the ABC book.
Key Student Performance Indicators include:
- Knowing local Virgin Islands plants.
- Being knowledgeable about native land and sea animals of the Virgin Islands.
- Knowing cultural and folklore figures of the Virgin Islands.
- Identifying the territorial symbols of the Virgin Islands, such as the bird, flower, and food.
- Being knowledgeable of the marine ecosystem in the Virgin Islands.
Jessica Parker White
As the educational coordinator at CMCArts, Parker played a pivotal role in this project. She facilitated collaboration between the schools and the museum, she utilized her skills as an art teacher to guide and hone the students’ artistic abilities and she gave her hands-on support during the painting process. Her dedication to fostering cultural education was instrumental in bringing this initiative to life, empowering young learners to explore and celebrate their heritage.
Professor Olasee Davis
As an ecologist, an ethnobotanist, historian, and educator, Prof. Davis brought a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to this project. Through his role as an assistant professor/extension specialist of the University of the Virgin Islands, Davis guided students in educational hikes to significant historical and cultural landmarks. His engaging storytelling and ability to connect students with the natural and cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands made learning fun and impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the children and inspiring their curiosity and appreciation for their roots.
Danica David
Serving as the art director for this project, David brought her expertise as a dedicated artist and visual arts educator at St. Croix Educational Complex High School. David carefully reviewed all the children’s artwork, contributed to the election process for inclusion in the book, and made critical recommendations on layout, coloring, and artistic enhancements. David’s leadership and artistic vision elevated the project, ensuring the final product showcased the creativity and talent of the students while reflecting the cultural essence of the Virgin Islands.
Erin Shae Bryan
As a creative consultant, Bryan brought her energy and insight to every aspect of this project. From assessing students during field trips to working hands-on in the classroom, she encouraged and inspired the children throughout the art process. She also provided valuable input on the book’s design, layout, and rhyme, helping to ensure that each element resonated with creativity and purpose. Bryan’s passion for education, creativity, and cultural preservation made her an integral part of this project’s success.
Alfredo Andrews Elementary School
Ms. Finch’s third-grade class
A special thank you to Ms. Finch and her third-grade class at Alfredo Andrews Elementary School. Your artistic contributions and passion for preserving the heritage of the Virgin Islands have been invaluable to this book.
Claude O. Markoe Elementary School
Ms. Lanclose’s third-grade class
A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Lanclose and her third-grade class at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School. Your creativity and dedication have been a vital part of bringing this project to life. Your enthusiasm for celebrating our culture is truly inspiring.
Ricardo Richards Elementary School
Ms. Haynes’ third-grade class
Thank you to Ms. Haynes and her third-grade class at Ricardo Richards Elementary School for contributing your thoughtful and deep love for the islands’ traditions. Your creativity and enthusiasm have truly enriched this project.
About the Author – Angela Golden Bryan
As the executive director of Fireburn Heritage and a Crucian by heritage and upbringing, Bryan is passionate about preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of the Virgin Islands.
An award-winning author and cultural advocate, she co-authored “Anna and the Goat Foot Woman” with Erin Shae Bryan and has written several other works, “James and the Fireburn,” “Fireburn: The Screenplay,” “Roots and Resilience,” and “Authorities.”
A sought-after motivational and inspirational speaker, Bryan delivers engaging messages on faith, spiritual growth, personal transformation, holistic well-being, and cultural heritage. Whether speaking at conferences, churches, or community events, she inspires audiences to embrace personal growth and resilience.
This ABC book is her latest effort to inspire the next generation to embrace and honor their heritage. She hopes it will encourage readers of all ages to celebrate the unique culture of the Virgin Islands for generations to come.
Acknowledgments:
Bryan is deeply grateful to the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts for the invitation to be an artist-in-residence. Their support, the lodging, resources, and platform were all integral to the success of this project.
She extends her deepest gratitude to the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Resist Foundation.
Special thanks to Fireburn Heritage for securing funding, managing the project and providing financial oversight. Fireburn Heritage’s dedication to preserving and sharing Virgin Islands culture has been instrumental in the success of this initiative.
Cinematography Team:
Kevin Moolenaar, George Cannon, and Malik Gomes of Blue Tarp Productions
For more information or to purchase the ABC book:
FireburnHeritage@gmail.com
fireburnheritage.org
cmcarts.org
Call CMCArts: 340-772-2622
