Anthea McGibbon

The creative workshop series titled “The critical role and Impact of the Arts” began at the Allman Town Primary School on Wednesday, January 13, 2010. The workshop is the first project by OAaSIS International. OaASIS International Foundation exists to network members of the creative industry in assisting in the development of the creative mind of today’s youth. The project is a demonstration of the corporate and social responsibility of the creative industry as major stakeholders in the Jamaican economy.

The launch was emceed by Kandi-Lee Crooks-Smith, who presided . The welcome was made by the patron of the OAaSIS International Foundation, master painter Barrington Watson, while official endorsement of the workshop came from attorney-at-law Cordel Green, director of the Broadcasting Commission of Jamaica. Principal of the school, Kandi-Lee Crooks-Smith, indicated her full support of the programme, indicating that Allman Town Primary already is unofficially become a part of the foundation, and is of the feeling that “Anything project that seeks to recognize the intrinsic benefit of art is good for Jamaica, and more specifically, the Allman Town community.”

The OAaSIS Foundation will implement projects to sensitise children and their parents or guardians and teachers on how the Arts can be used in the development of the individual and nation. It is also oriented to benefit the artistic community, Jamaican people as the focus will be poverty alleviation, job creation, social, educational and community development, fostering a sustainable environment through better understanding and application of the Arts, as a viable field and its careers.

On hand at the opening ceremony was well known performing artiste, musician, singer, actor who is also graphic designer Farenheit. He spoke on his diversified experience as both performing, visual and performing artiste. The backup singer for Jamaican celebrity Sean Paul, went into his catalogue and Sean Paul’s to requests by students who applauded his presentation first in appreciation. Equally vociferous cries of approval came from the children on hand when Wizad the Magician amazed them with his deft magical movements. Rounding off the showcase segment was an energetic drum display by Allman Town’s “Base Drummers” which included the school’s drama teacher, Omaro Mazlyn.

Founder of the organization, Anthea McGibbon, in her address reiterated the need to recognize the far-reaching effect of the visual and performing arts in Jamaica. All creative stakeholders are valuable and are being encouraged to commit to helping to make Jamaica a prosperous country offering abundant opportunities. Winston ‘Bello’ Bell was also present at the launch to speak about his new group I Am The Change, and was also quite supportive of the aims of the foundation.

“ Through the arts, it is possible for Jamaica to build a sense of esteem in the youth, with a latent effect of bringing about increased academic performance, greater self-esteem, greatly needed creative skills and better skill-building” Bell said.

The creative workshop series runs between January 13-22, 2010 at the Allman Town Primary School, and the public must register before attending. However on Friday for the closing ceremony all members of the public are invited. For more information visit www.oasisinternational.org.

SPONSORS:

(Whistling Frog (Sebastian Odgen)), P Gavin James graphics, Howard Moo Young (master at graphic design and photography, Print Xpress, Hot off the Press, Berger Paint, Burger King, Videographer Robin Chin, owner of Enhanced Realizm Studios and his team, Xclusiv Entertainment, Paralegal Dwane Forbes)

READ MORE:

Jamaica’s OAaSIS International Foundation launches creative workshop series
DAY 1: Jamaican artistes, artists ignite young minds
DAY 2: New creative depth for students through creative series
DAY 3: Colonel Derby, Peter Lloyd, artists time out for children
DAY 4: Creative connections at Allman Town Primary
DAY 5: Workshop stirs creative power at Allman Town Primary
DAY SIX(6): Creative workshop series end with Solid performances
DAY 6: Starry end to inaugural OAaSIS Fdn’s creative workshop series
DAY 6: Allman Town Primary thanks over 30 artists, artistes for creative workshop series
Allman Town teacher reports on OAaSIS creative series

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Creative workshop series end with Solid performances

allman town primary, creative workshop series, oaasis