Young Artists Bring Child Rights to Life in Mural on Water Lane

A Creative Expression of Child Rights

Ten young artists from four parishes in Jamaica came together to create a vibrant street mural on Water Lane in downtown Kingston, bringing the rights of children to life. This creative project was part of the Kingston Artwalk Festival, organized by UNICEF, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), and Kingston Creative to mark World Children’s Day and the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC35).

The Artists’ Vision

The artists, selected from the JCDC visual arts competition, expressed their understanding of child rights through vibrant artworks. Sixteen-year-old Tamoy Williams from York Castle High shared his excitement, saying, “I love art, and I saw this as a great opportunity to champion child rights through art.”

A Timely Collaboration

For Kingston Creative’s Deputy Director, Janet Crick, the collaboration with UNICEF and JCDC for the mural painting was timely. “For the Artwalk Festival, our theme was Youth and Emerging Creatives, and we wanted to have an activity that involved youth doing something interactive on the day. When UNICEF approached us about this mural, we were ecstatic and saw it as a timely opportunity. The children were able to express their interpretation of their rights artistically, which ties in perfectly with Kingston Creative’s mission to promote creativity. We always encourage creative expression and art, especially among our youths,” Ms Crick said.

A Celebration of Child Rights

During the painting of the mural, spectators, including the parents of the artists, watched eagerly as the mural developed, showcasing the creativity and talent of the young artists. Jennice Hannigan, mother of 12-year-old Imani Hannigan, was thrilled that her daughter was asked to participate. “We didn’t know what to expect, but it has been tremendous. My daughter chose a couple of the rights from the CRC and did a beautiful painting. Even though it was her first time painting on a wall and being around so many people, she was made to feel very comfortable and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We just wanted to say thank you for the opportunity, as it was important to build her self-confidence. I know years from now, we will be able to return to this mural as a family and say Imani painted that little spot!”

Conclusion

The mural on Water Lane is a testament to the power of art in expressing the rights of children. Through this creative project, the young artists were able to bring their understanding of child rights to life, showcasing their talent and passion. As UNICEF Representative, Olga Isaza, noted, “This activity not only allows these children to showcase their skills but shines a spotlight on the promise that countries made and child rights in such a beautiful and impactful way. We are thrilled to see such creativity and community engagement and look forward to having this replicated in other areas across the country.”

FAQs

Q: What was the purpose of the mural project?
A: The mural project was part of the Kingston Artwalk Festival, organized by UNICEF, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), and Kingston Creative to mark World Children’s Day and the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC35).

Q: Who were the artists involved in the project?
A: Ten young artists from four parishes in Jamaica were selected from the JCDC visual arts competition to participate in the project.

Q: What was the theme of the mural?
A: The theme of the mural was the rights of children, as expressed through vibrant artworks.

Q: What was the significance of the project?
A: The project was significant because it allowed the young artists to express their understanding of child rights through art, showcasing their talent and passion. It also served as a celebration of child rights and a reminder of the importance of fulfilling the rights of children.