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Art :“The harmonious expression of one’s vision of life.”
This personal description of his lifelong passion is what defines the work of Jamaican artist, Basil Barrington Watson. For more than 40 years, he has been translating life’s most important attributes – positive emotions and attitudes, the spirit of freedom and spontaneity, strength, beauty, energy and vigor – into finely crafted works of art.
Born in Kingston, Jamaica, the son of internationally renowned painter Barrington Watson, it was a natural progression for Watson to study at the Jamaica School of Art. He then went on to establish a successful career as Jamaica’s leading sculptor. The most notable of his achievements include having monumental works on the campuses of the 3 primary universities in the island, as well as signature works at the 2 major Stadia. In 2016, the Government of Jamaica awarded Basil the Order of Distinction (Commander) in recognition of his contributions in the field of Art.
Emigrating to the United States in 2002, Watson established his home and studio in Lawrenceville, GA. Having continued the steep climb to international recognition, he has completed major works in China, Guatemala, and in various States within the US.
Over his 40 year career, Basil has completed several major commissions for various governments and organizations all over the world. These include:
• Rings of Life, 2012. Unveiled by Prince Harry in honor of the Golden Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II
• Bust of the late JoAnn Thompson, former Alderman of the 16th Ward of Chicago
• Cradle – The Future In Our Hands, 2010. Neighborhood Union Health Center, Atlanta GA
• Balance, 2006. 15ft sculpture commissioned in commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of Doctors Cave Beach
• Earth to Heaven, 2004. Life-sized sculpture installed in the Changchun Sculpture Park following the 7th International Sculpture Symposium in Changchun China
• Circle of Knowledge, 2001. Signature work for Northern Caribbean University, Jamaica
Most recent projects include:
• Tribute to Usain Bolt, three-time Olympic 100m Champion
• Tribute to Shelley-Ann Fraser-Price, two-time Olympic 100m Champion
• Tribute to Jamaican National Heroes, a seven bust series
• Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., an 18 foot sculpture commissioned by the City of Atlanta
Basil Watson is among four artists shortlisted to create a new monument at Waterloo Station in London honoring the Windrush generation of workers who arrived in the UK from the Caribbean between 1948 and the early 70’s. The winning design is due to be revealed during Black History Month in the UK in October, while the monument is expected to be unveiled on Windrush Day, June 2022.
