For more than 25 years, self-taught artist Kenneth Nelson, popularly known as Ras Judah, has been perfecting his sculpting skills and creating artistic pieces; his works include sculpting, semi-realistic and abstract pieces. Now, he is also using this passion to advocate for a cleaner environment.
Speaking with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Nelson credits his mother for his artistic ability. She was also an artist, and had done many realistic paintings. When his mother died, Nelson found out through his uncle’s eulogy that the queen of England, on a visit to Guyana, had admired some of his mother’s work. Seemingly innate, his artistic talents were perfected through years of practice and working with veteran artists.
Nelson has not only exhibited his art countrywide, but has travelled to Barbados and other Caribbean countries to display his pieces. He stated that Guyanese art is unique because of our diversity, and this he constantly showcases, wherever he visits.
In 1999, Nelson joined Guyana United Artists, working alongside notable artists like Desmond Alli. He has been a member of the Guyana Art and Crafts Producers Association since 2008, and recently joined the newly-formed Main Street Artists. This group, comprising eight artists including Nelson, showcases artwork along the Main Street avenue, just opposite Courts.
“We also maintain the area, keeping it clean so that it can appeal to tourists.” Nelson said, discussing their Main Street location. “But, although we clean, some have the habit of littering, so I would like to urge the public to desist from such a habit. We can’t teach our children not to litter if they see us doing so. Just as how we adhere to other countries’ laws when we visit, [and] curb our ways of littering, we can do the same on our homeland.”
Nelson stated that artists have been exhibiting on Main Street since the 80s. Through his research, he discovered that most artists were around the City Hall area during the 60s, and then moved to Main Street. Main Street, he pointed out, is a focal point where tourists visit to purchase art and craft items. Nelson not only exhibits his pieces, but also sculpts on spot.
“We have a lot of visitors coming out to support us on Main Street. I want to thank the City Council and the Ministry of Culture for allowing us to exhibit here. Out here, tourists see firsthand how we create our pieces. It definitely adds to their experience seeing Guyanese artists displaying their skills. Some even come up with new ideas, which we thankfully welcome,” the artist revealed.
Nelson’s hope is to see many more schools being more involved in art. He believes that art shapes a community, and investments in the art industry would significantly contribute to the tourism sector. Nelson plays his part in promoting other artists by marketing their products at his humble tent on Main Street.
