Daviot Kelly, Staff Reporter
Richard Chen (right) introduces the six finalists in The Mutual Life Gallery and Art Centre's 'Super Plus under 40 Artists of the Year Competition'. The finalists are (from left) Oneika Russell, Tiffany Recas, Ebony Patterson, Christopher Irons, Kereina Chang Fatt and Keisha Costello. The launch was held at the Mutual Gallery, National Commercial Bank (NCB) Complex, at the corner of Old Hope and Oxford roads on Tuesday July 12. - WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
SIX OF the island's gifted young artists will compete for $100,000 in cash while showing off their skills to the wider Jamaica.
Their aim; to impress a panel of judges and the public that their work is top class thus cementing their reputation as the under 40 Artist of the Year. The competition was launched at the Mutual Gallery on Tuesday where guests had the opportunity to see the works for the first time.
The six finalists were chosen from a field of 16 original entrants. They are Keisha Castello, Ebony Patterson, Oneika Russell, Tiffany Recas, Kereina Chang Fatt and the lone male, Christopher Irons.
Major sponsor of the competition is Super Plus Food Stores. Representing the family, Richard Chen said that the competition provided the artists with an opportunity to really express themselves. He also felt that the exhibits, which are open to the public, will help others to connect with the artists and by extension, Jamaican culture, in a real way. He underlined the company's support of the "creative spirit'.
Apart from the 'jury' who decides the overall winner, the public can also vote. Whoever gets the most votes via this method, wins the People's Choice Award and $50,000. So one artist could win both prizes!
The winner will be announced on August 4.
