The School of Visual Arts (SVA) at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts (EMCVPA) celebrates its 75th year of artistic excellence with two engaging discussions as part of its Faculty Focus – SVA 75 series.

These artist talks accompany the SVA Celebrating 75 Years exhibition, which has been celebrated as a standout showcase of the college’s artistic excellence. It opened last month during the institution’s Eyes on 50 Founders’ Week with artworks created by over 18 faculty members, and offers a compelling exploration of creativity and innovation, while capturing the ever-changing landscape of modern visual culture.

According to a press release, the first discussion, Artist Talk: Faculty Focus – SVA 75 (Part 1), takes place Thursday at 2:00 pm in the Edward Seaga Library and Resource Centre. This session will be moderated by renowned fibre artist and lecturer in SVA’s textiles department, Katrina Coombs. It features six distinguished artists — Cleve Bowen, Greg Bailey, Paul Smith, Raymond Watson, Sana Rose, and Stacy-Ann Hyde — as they reflect on their creative journeys and the School of Visual Arts’ lasting impact on contemporary art.

The conversation will explore the ways in which faculty members balance their roles as practicing artists and educators, continuing to evolve in their own careers while mentoring the next generation of creatives.

The Eyes on 50 exhibition at the College’s CAG[e] has garnered widespread praise for its depth and diversity. It remains open until Monday, March 24, 2025, with the second discussion, Artist Talk: Faculty Focus – SVA 75 (Part 2) being a fitting close to the exhibition. Moderated by renowned artist and EDNA SVA alumnus-turned-lecturer, Phillip Thomas, this conversation will highlight the perspectives of participating artists Alao Luqman Omotayo, Amanda Lazarus, Camille Chedda, Patrick Hall, Verona Barnes, and the School’s Dean, Miriam Hinds Smith.

Exhibition Curator, Yulanah Mullings, shares how both talks serve as vital platforms for artistic discourse, mentorship, and reflection.

“The Artist Talks: Faculty Focus – SVA 75 is ideal as it brings the artworks to life through conversation. The exhibition highlights faculty members who balance their roles as educators and practicing artists, and the talk extends this dialogue by exploring how EMCVPA has shaped their journeys,” Mullings said. “With many of the artists having transitioned from students to faculty, the discussion reinforces themes of legacy, mentorship, and artistic evolution. By reflecting on the school’s impact and the dual role of artist-mentor, the talk ensures the exhibition closes with a meaningful exchange of ideas.”

These events also mark the lead-up to EMCVPA’s highly anticipated event season running from April to May, when the College will unveil its critically acclaimed final-year student exhibitions. As one of the most eagerly awaited showcases on the Jamaican art calendar, this exhibition underscores the institution’s continued role in shaping the next generation of creative visionaries.

Members of the public, art enthusiasts, and industry professionals are encouraged to attend these insightful discussions and experience the outstanding works on display.

For more information, interested persons can contact Curatorial Assistant, Yulanah Mullings, at yulanah.mullings@emc.edu.jm.