The exhibit is titled: “Maquettes: The Studies and Drawings of Basil Watson,” after the term used for the study model used for making sculptures. The pieces on display include bronze sculptures of Jamaican figures such as champion sprinters Usain Bolt and Shelley-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and poet Louise Bennet-Coverley. The exhibit also includes the model for Watson’s 18-foot monument honoring Martin Luther King that was commissioned by the city of Atlanta.
Watson, who has his sculptures featured around the world, explained his fascination with the form:
“Figures have been my interest, inspiration and focus as I have continued to study and build a strong foundation in drawing. I found sculpture as I sought to explore a more plastic vehicle of communication.”
The gallery will also be hosting a moderated discussion with Wilson and exhibit curator Christopher Norwood this August. The event is designed to coincide with Jamaica’s Independence Day and will be relevant to Miramar and the Miami area’s large Jamaican-American community. Events like these, typically advertised through tools like poster printing and social media, help to bring new attention to art exhibits and allow people to directly interact with artists.
“Maquettes: The Studies and Drawings of Basil Watson” will run until August 15 at the Ansin Gallery in the Miramar Cultural Center Arts Park. The discussion will take place on August 5 at the Center’s Banquet Hall.