Self-taught artist makes it work

Rasbert Turner, Arts & Education Writer

Old Harbour Bay resident Theodore Waul got up one morning five years ago and decided that he needed to express himself through painting and he has not looked back since.

"I started by painting signs for shops and business places, but after meeting Jeffrey Perry and having discussions with him, I realised that I could do drawings and he gave me some pointers and I started to express myself on canvas,'' Waul said.

He said that he realised that he is inspired by daily happenings and expressed himself through these events. Waul said he draws scenes of things that happen on a daily basis.

When Arts and Education caught up with the former Old Harbour High School student, he was completing a painting of a country scene.

He gave Arts and Education a peek at three of his pieces: one depicting the countryside; one of breadfruit being roasted; and the third, an old house.

Waul, who was displaying at an Old Harbour expo, said he has been able to make a living from his efforts by displaying and selling his works at art shows around the island.

"It helps me to feed my two children daily, so I am very glad that I am able to be a good father to them," Waul said.

He said he wants to grow as an artist and have his work exhibited internationally.

Although he received no formal training, many persons said that his pieces are very impressive because of the stories his paintings tell.