Arts and Culture Jamaica Inc. celebrates its 30th anniversary
By Neil Armstrong
Arts and Culture Jamaica Inc., a Toronto-based organization that provides a forum to promote the cultural and artistic heritage of Jamaica, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an upcoming signature event featuring over 20 authors and artists.
Incorporated in 1995, it not only showcases the vibrant culture in Jamaica, but also supports artists in disciplines such as dance, design, music, literature, art, storytelling, drama, and cultural activities throughout the year.
On September 20, from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., 24 authors and artists will assemble at the Toronto Botanical Garden in Scarborough for the first “Book and Art Showcase: Voices from the Jamaican Diaspora,” a free indoor event, organized by Arts and Culture Jamaica Inc., under the patronage of Kurt Davis, consul general for Jamaica at Toronto.
Among the eighteen authors are Rachel Manley, Mary Anne Chambers, Lillian Allen, Tania Hernandez, Mary Lou Soutar-Hynes, Cynthia Reyes, Lauren Reyes-Grange, Bernadette Gabay Dyer, Rhiannon Dyer, David McAdam, George Montague, Noel Bennett, Peta-Gaye Nash, Olive Rose Steele, Nadia Hohn, Bette Grant-Otunla, Rose Spencer-Gibbs, and Paula de Ronde.
The six featured artists are Philemon Campbell, Quentin VerCetty, Naima Edwards-Lavoie, Linda Gayle, Lisa Sasso, and Sydonnae Simon.
Carolyn Goulbourne, president of the organization, said a few years after it was formed, Arts and Culture Jamaica Inc. introduced its scholarship program, a proud initiative that continues today.
“This program supports students of Jamaican heritage who are pursuing post-secondary studies in Canada, specifically in fields related to the arts. Whether they are studying music, dance, theatre, visual arts or other creative disciplines, these young people represent the next generation of cultural ambassadors. To date, we have presented 27 scholarships to deserving students who are not only smart and creative, but make us proud to see where the next generation is headed. This year we would like to award 3 scholarships which would make it a total of 30 scholarships awarded in 30 years of service. The presentations will take place in December,” she said.
Goulbourne said Arts and Culture Jamaica was founded 30 years ago, with the vision of creating a space where the Jamaican heritage could be shared, nurtured and preserved within the Canadian landscape.
“Over the years we’ve organized book launches, art and photo exhibitions and other events to showcase the unique arts and culture of our island home.”
Earlier this year, to celebrate its 30th anniversary Arts and Culture Jamaica Inc. organized a couple book launches: Tania Hernandez’s new book, “Ay Ya Yai! Miss Lou: Voice of the Jamaican People,” at Blackhurst Cultural Centre in January, and Rachel Manley’s new book, “George the Last,” in May at the Jamaican consulate.
Its members include Canadians of Jamaican heritage, and friends and supporters of Jamaica who “volunteer their time and skills to introduce and promote Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage to the Canadian community.”
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