LUCEA, Hanover — There is a determined move underway to provide youngsters in Westmoreland with an opportunity for artistic expression that also generates income.

In December, there will be the third annual Irie Arts Visual Arts Showcase and winners of last year’s event were celebrated this month, during a vibrant awards ceremony.

The competition, which takes place on the first Friday and Saturday of December each year, has seen a notable increase in entries since its inception, signalling growing enthusiasm and participation among young Jamaican artists.

It’s the brainchild of Michael, who has eschewed use of his surname and goes by the moniker “The Sandman” — a visual artist and craft vendor based in Negril, Westmoreland.

The showcase focuses on nurturing visual arts talent among primary and high school students across Westmoreland and Hanover. Driven by a mission to inspire creativity and community pride, The Sandman aims to engage youth through meaningful artistic expression.

“[The showcase] is to inspire di youths to explore their artistic talents,” The Sandman told the Jamaica Observer.

More than just an exhibition, the competition incorporates formal training sessions.

“They don’t just come and display their work,” secretary of Irie Arts Visual Arts Showcase Shashana Livingston shared. “We teach them about opportunities they can tap into.”

Participants are encouraged to use locally sourced material, promoting sustainability and a deeper connection to their communities. The competition not only fosters artistic growth but also introduces creative income-generating possibilities and positions art as a viable career path. By highlighting authentic Jamaican art, the initiative contributes to the local economy, bolsters tourism, and instils cultural pride in young people.

The Sandman’s commitment to youth development extends beyond the annual event. He leads community workshops and school programmes, introducing children to the transformative power of creativity.

Through his apprentice programme, facilitated by the Social Development Commission (SDC), he offers intensive hands-on training in various art forms, culminating in official certification after just three months. He also teaches art at Green Island High School, where he continues to shape young minds and creative spirits.

Last year’s contest theme, ‘The Jamaican Icon’, inspired a wide array of submissions celebrating national identity. The winners in the primary school category were Askenish Primary in third place, Cacoon Primary and Infant placed second, while Lucea Primary took the top prize. In the high school category third place went to Merlene Ottey High, second place to Green Island High and in first place was Rhodes Hall High which was winning for the second-consecutive year.

The top three schools in each category received cash prizes — $20,000 for first place, $15,000 for second, and $10,000 for third — along with a trophy and sketchbook for each winning team.

Prizes were awarded during a ceremony held at Global Villa Hotel and Conference Centre on June 6.

Approximately 60 people attended the ceremony, reflecting strong community and school support for the arts. The Sandman hopes to see increased support in the future to expand the awards and attract even more young talent to the competition scheduled for December 2025.

“These are natural artistes!” he shared with the Observer. “I want to showcase them. Hopefully someone can see their art and offer them scholarships to continue in art school for more formal training.”

For The Sandman, the true joy lies not only in creating art but in mentoring the next generation.

“Mi deh yah fi teach! When I die, someone can carry it on — they can even be better,” he said passionately.