KINGSTON, Jamaica – He’s a young artist with an enviable resume that caught the attention of the Jamaican Prime Minister – not once but twice. Yes, illustrator Michael Talbot has been shortlisted for the esteemed Prime Minister Youth Awards twice. And, despite not walking away with the trophy on any of those occasions, the young professional told Observer Online that his inclusion on the list is testament to his outstanding work.

“It is indeed a great honour to have been considered and even further short-listed for the award! This is my second year having been short-listed, so having gotten this far twice, is at the very least, a great indicator that I’m on the right path,” he shared excitedly. “How I’ve approached instances like these is with the mindset that getting to this point in the overall process is already a win in my book. Whether I was the one who walked away with the trophy or not, it doesn’t discredit all the amazing work that all the other nominees and I have done in our respective fields and areas.”

Talbot, who migrated to the United States in 2012, says that over the past decade, he has worked tirelessly to build his brand. He shared that since then, he has completed a number of book illustrations as well as his very own graphic novel. He shared that sometimes, even he is taken aback by all his accomplishments.

“I often forget how much I’ve done myself! It is a bit surprising whenever I try to list all the projects I’ve worked on or have been part of, but I think that is also hugely in part due to my general outlook on life,” he admitted. “It’s good to reminisce on the past and give yourself credit for the things you’ve accomplished, and also to give yourself goals to strive for; however, I find myself more interested and eager to know what’s next and to keep moving forward.”

Well aware that his profession is perhaps not one of the most glorified fields worldwide, Talbot shared that he has been blessed to have the support of his family. He expressed that having been recognised twice through the Prime Minister’s Award, proved to his inner circle that their support was not in vain.

One of the many murals created by Talbot on display in Boston, United States. (Photo: Contributed)

“In terms of my family, I think this (the PM Awards) is confirmation for them that allowing me and supporting me in my artistic journey was indeed the right path,” he stated, advising young people with a passion for the Visual Arts to pursue their goals no matter what. “If there’s an interest or a passion, it’s worth pursuing. Despite what others may think or say, simply having an interest is reason enough to explore it.

“Additionally, if there are current circumstances or situations that are actively hindering or preventing you from pursuing said interest or passion, NEVER throw it away — you can put it on the back burner, pivot to something else for the time being, but never discard your interests or passions because you never know when an opportunity might come up that will finally allow you to pursue and explore it,” he continued. “Sometimes all it takes is one well-placed moment or experience to propel you to where you want or need to go. And even if there are roadblocks, however temporary or permanent they might be, to allow yourself to pivot in another direction to keep that momentum.”

Speaking of getting where one needs to go, Talbot told Observer Online that since beginning his professional journey, he has had the privilege of working with some of the most amazing talents in the Arts across the United States.

Talbot shared that sometimes, even he is taken aback by all his accomplishments. (Photo: Contributed)

“Knowing that I had a vision and a goal that, through actively pursuing and working towards, I came out the other side successful. It does also help that I have surrounded myself with countless others, like Richard Nattoo, who are artisans in their own right and continue to push me forward and not become complacent. I’ve had the honour and pleasure of working closely with a handful of other muralists and artists within the Boston area recently, learning from some of the big names in the public art industry. Additionally, I’ve also had the pleasure of hosting my own exhibitions and showcases, furthering my artistic network and facilitating community through art.”

In fact, Talbot shared that when he got the news of his second inclusion on the shortlist of the PM Awards, he was at his own gallery opening. The latter showcases work from one of his graphic novel ideas.

“My latest exhibition showcase, currently on display here in Boston, loosely based on one of my graphic novel ideas. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed bridging the gap and blurring the lines between Fine Art and Illustration/commercial work, as seeing people interact and resonate with my work is what I strive for each time, “he said, highlighting that people getting emotional over his work is an added incentive. “Weirdly enough, I’ve started equating the successes of my shows to the number of people I can get to cry during my openings, and by this benchmark I would say my show has already been a huge success.”