Art, self-expression shape children’s tribute to Bob Marley

Celebration at the Bob Marley Museum took on a youthful air as children marked what would have been the reggae icon’s 81st birthday, their small footsteps animating the historic grounds last Friday.

A dedicated kids village, sponsored by Berger Paints Jamaica Limited offered activities aimed at encouraging creativity and self-expression, reinforcing the continued relevance of Marley’s legacy. Children from schools across the Corporate Area took part in face painting and canvas art, and were given complimentary colouring and activity books to take home. Live caricature portraits, available to both children and adults, were another highlight of the day.

Explaining the initiative, Asheaka James, trade marketing manager at Berger Paints Jamaica, emphasised the value of nurturing creativity in young minds while celebrating Jamaican culture. “Bob Marley’s legacy is rooted in love, creativity, and unity, and we felt it was important to honour that legacy by creating a space where children could freely express themselves,” she said. “At Berger, colour is at the heart of what we do, and being part of the Kids Village allowed us to bring that colour to life in a meaningful way for Jamaica’s future generation.”

Caricature artist Emerald Easy said the atmosphere reflected Marley’s ideals. “Bob Marley stood for creativity, freedom, and self-expression, and that’s exactly what I saw from both children and adults alike today. Through caricature, patrons were able to see themselves reflected in art, and I’m grateful to Berger Paints Jamaica for creating a space where that kind of creativity could thrive.”