Ras Natango showcases art at Round Hill resort
Published:Wednesday | November 21, 2018 | 12:00 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
Scores of art enthusiasts turned out at the Round Hill Resort in Hanover last Wednesday night to scout for paintings at the hotels weekly art exhibition, showcasing the work of feature artist, Montego Bay's Ras Natango.
The self-taught artist, who is a trained accountant, has done work over the last 40 plus years, depicting 'Life in the Tropics'. These can be found in private collections in more than 17 countries worldwide, as well as in some of Jamaica's finest resorts such as the Half Moon hotel, and Spanish chain hotels such as RIU Resorts.
Of course, many of these were on show at Round Hill, covering subjects such as fauna, flora, culture and aspects of daily Jamaican life, which he described to The Gleaner, as "things that make our culture really rich and our people independent".
Accompanied by wife, Tamika, and son, Ayale Williams, Ras 'Ian Williams' Natango, was his usual relaxed self, chatting with art enthusiasts and enjoying the night.
"This is actually my first time exhibiting here at this resort. I have shown my pieces at Tryall some years ago, but it's my first time here. I really appreciate it. I am thankful to the manage-ment and staff of Round Hill, and I am grateful for the opportunity. It is an honour," he said.
"The feedback has been great. I am an untrained artist. I paint the way I feel. If I get up this morning mad, then you see it in my work. If I get up in a peaceful mood, then you see it in my work," he explained.
Ras Natango has a preference for working with acrylics on porous surfaces, particularly canvas. His biography describes him as doing art, which constantly evolves over the years, allowing him the freedom to paint without sketching, and minus visible brushstrokes.
He has studied the techniques of some of the world's greatest artists, among them Michelangelo, Picasso, Rembrandt, van Gogh and da Vinci.