Jamaican jubilee in Paris

An exhibition of paintings and photographs capturing the vibrant palette of colours of Jamaica is how Jamaicans in Paris are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the country's Independence.

Under the patronage of the ambassador of Jamaica to France, Belgium and the European Union, Her Excellency Vilma McNish, the exhibition titled 'Jamaica 50 - Paris: Three Artists Celebrate' features the works of Alecia McKenzie, Constance Wood and Hanniffa Patterson, all of whom currently live in France.

At a reception to open the exhibition recently, Ambassador McNish observed that the 50th anniversary was a time of special significance for Jamaicans at home and abroad. She said that wherever they are found in the diaspora, Jamaicans have come together to celebrate this occasion. She commended the Jamaican community in Paris for its efforts to ensure that the jubilee is celebrated in France.

Describing Jamaica as "the biggest small island in the world", Ambassador McNish referred to Jamaica's international profile as a result of its music and culture and, of course, athletics. She noted, however, that art has also been a dynamic feature of Jamaican life, reflecting the variety, energy, vitality and vibrancy of the Jamaican people, telling the story of the country's history, struggles, triumphs and achievements. Beginning with the Tainos, Jamaica's first inhabitants, Artist profiles through colonialism, nationalism and to the post-Independence period, the social context of the country has provided the backdrop for the art produced by Jamaicans, she said.

This is exemplified in the work of the three artists. Though they practise their craft overseas, they have managed to retain much of the ethos that informs Jamaican art and have contributed to the growing popularity of Jamaican art at the international level. Jamaican art can be found in private collections around the world.

In addition to Jamaican nationals, the scores of guests at the reception included representatives from the French Foreign Ministry, the diplomatic corps, academia, and the artistic community in Paris, among others.

The exhibition runs until December 31.

Artist Profiles

Alecia McKenzie is a writer as well as an artist. Her debut short story
collection 'Satellite City' and her latest novel 'Sweetheart' have both
won Commonwealth Literary prizes. She has participated in exhibitions in
Alabama, New York, Brussels, London and Singapore.

Constance
Wood holds a bachelor's degree in fine art from the University of
Portsmouth, and a postgraduate degree in art education from North London
University in the United Kingdom. Exploring art through sculpting and
painting, much of her inspiration comes from the expressions of people.

Hanniffa
Patterson has been based in Paris for four years where she teaches
English at the Sorbonne University. She has been involved in the
creative arts since her youth and has participated in several small
plays. Her striking black and white photographs depict street scenes and
historic sites in Jamaica.