KINGSTON, Jamaica – Minister of Youth and Culture Lisa Hanna says she notes with regret and sadness the passing of two of Jamaica’s cultural pioneers Barrington Watson and George Carter who have made significant contributions to the creative industries over the years.

Watson, lauded as one of the most influential post-Independence artistic figures, passed away at his home in Kingston last evening. Watson, from the 1950s to present created 259 pieces through paintings and works on paper, a statement from the Ministry said.

His most well-known works, according to the statement, include masterpieces such as: Mother and Child (1958-59), Washer Women (1966), Athlete’s Nightmare (1966), and Conversation (1981) and other major works from private and corporate collections.

Carter, known to many as ‘Mr C’ is known for his contributions to the Jamaican theatre industry and is remembered as a dedicated member of Jamaica’s cultural development landscape, who began making his contribution to the creative industry in the 1940s with his association with the annual Pantomime.

“I am indeed saddened by the passing of these two cultural icons. Both Barrington and George not only dedicated their lives to expressing their own unique creativity while building a legacy of their own, but also dedicated their lives to enhancing and promoting Jamaica’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

“The Ministry of Youth and Culture is committed to ensuring that their works are known by generations to come. May the next generation of cultural practitioners be inspired by their works and selfless contributions,” Hanna said.