Renowned artist, musician and art educator Cecil Harvey Cooper died this morning. He was 70. His passing comes just over a week after he was conferred with Jamaica’s fifth highest honour, the Order of Distinction (Commander Class), at a special investiture ceremony at King’s House. Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, who presented Cooper with the award, said it represented “service rendered that enhanced the quality of life and demonstrated significant contributions to Jamaica”. Prime Minister Andrew Holness said Cooper’s “intellectual leadership and artistic integrity have given instrumental foundation” to his many students.  “Many hold him in high esteem, but more importantly great affection,” said Holness. Cooper was one of the first students to graduate from the Jamaica School of Art, now Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, in 1966. He was taught by … Read entire article »

By Richard Johnson—  Artist Cecil Cooper commemorates his 70th birthday with an exhibition entitled Milestone — Cecil Cooper at 70. THIS year, renowned artist Cecil Cooper marks a milestone. He has reached his Biblical three score and 10, and is commemorating this with an exhibition entitled Milestone — Cecil Cooper at 70. The exhibition begins Saturday until July 17 at the Olympia Gallery in St Andrew and will feature specially selected works from the late 1970’s to the present. The occasion will also be used to pay tribute to author/playwright Barbara Gloudon and will see Prime Minister Andrew Holness as guest speaker. Cooper is using the opportunity to give thanks.  “It is a significant milestone in anyone’s life. It is a point of significant arrival, where I want to pay homage and give thanks. Actually, this … Read entire article »