Institute of Jamaica opens 'Imagination'

Mel Cooke, Gleaner Writer

The Art in High Schools exhibition at the Institute of Jamaica's East Street location should have ended in July but, by requests, was extended for two additional months. Now, however, the contributions from 13 high schools islandwide, exhibited under the theme 'Nurture Art', are coming down and in a few months, 'Imagination' will be mounted.

It is not only a change in theme, but also a case of older students making way for younger ones, as 'Imagination' is the theme of the Art in Preparatory Schools exhibition.

However, the two exhibitions have something unfortunate in common. Georgette Morris-Francis, programmes manager at the Institute, said, "We need financial support for these programmes ... It encourages students to enter these competitions. What we are looking for is cash and kind."

Generous sponsors

The Art in High Schools exhibition was supported by Jamaica Beverages, The Art Centre, Pugh's Colour Lab, Sangster's Book Store, Novelty Trading Company, Liguanea Drug and Garden Centre and Cecil Simpson Jewellers. Seaforth High was best overall winner, while Denham Town had the most outstanding craftsmanship and St Hugh's was awarded for its originality and creativity. Garvey Maceo High earned a merit award for painting, as did St George's College, while Immaculate Conception High earned one for photography.

In a groundbreaking move, Morris-Francis said that "for the first time, select students were recommended for showing at the Liguanea Art Fair with pieces from the exhibition". Among them was Jonathan Bair of St George's High. There were also a number of first-time high school entrants, among them Maggotty and Foga Road, as well as Sandy Bay Primary and Junior High.

Presentation important

Morris-Francis noted that "we do need to remind entrants about the presentation of their work. It does impact".

All preparatory schools are invited to enter in the art as well as craft sections. The art pieces (not more than 20 from each school) are to be entered for painting, drawing, graphics, sculpture, collage, montage and photography. For craft (again not more than 20 pieces) the students may submit leatherwork, weaving and ceramics.

All entries must be accompanied by a declaration in writing from the principal of the school, that the works submitted are the original and unaided work of the pupils, with the name and age of the student, and the name of the school clearly written on the bottom right-hand corner, at the front of each drawing or painting.

The deadline is November 30, 2010.