Bringing Art to Life

One of a handful of artist still doing professional sketches, Jeffrey Perry is on top of his craft.

Discovering his undeniable talent at a young age, Perry's skills have earned him respect and have made him popular across the island.

Jeffrey Perry is a man on top of his game. His skills as an artist have earned him respect in local art circles, but it is his uncanny ability to create true-to-form portraits in a matter of minutes that has gained him popularity across the island.

Perry is one of only a handful of local artists who do professional live sketches. That's where a person sits for a few minutes while the artist does a sketch of them. When done properly, the final product will look just like the person. It's not easy to do, especially when operating within a limited time frame, but Perry has spent years perfecting the craft.

"I've actually been drawing for as long as I can remember," he said.

"When I was at primary school, I was the one who the teacher used to ask to draw the Christmas tree on the chalkboard during the season," he laughed.

Perry said that his friends at school would always gather around him while he was drawing. Even at that age, his talents were undeniable.

"I got a lot of encouragement from people."

Now, several years since his days drawing trees and reindeer on his classroom chalkboard, Perry still attracts a crowd whenever he gets down to business.

He's well known for his appearances at events such as the yearly Jazz and Blues Festival, and art fairs in Kingston and St Andrew.

"I normally get a good response at these events," said Perry.

"Some people just love to watch and see the image take shape in front of their eyes."

Perry was working in construction when he first decided to approach the operators of a resort on the north coast. He was seeking permission to set up his easel on the beach and do portraits of tourists. One look at samples of his work and the resort managers decided to give him a shot. That was eight years ago and Perry has never looked back. He still works the hotel circuit.

"The visitors love it. They love taking the drawings back home as souvenirs."

Perry also does portraits for weddings. They are usually done using photographs provided before the event. At the wedding ceremony, the portrait of the bride and groom is set up for guests to sign.

"It gives that personal touch," Perry smiled.

He charges about $3,000 for a live charcoal sketch, but he also does elaborate paintings, some of which are currently on display at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston.

Perry can be reached at jeffperryart@yahoo.com