Gifted and grateful are two winning qualities that best describes local visual artist, Conroy Green. Painting pictures of aspiration and inspiration, the creative recently made the rounds on social media for personally delivering a moving portrait depicting the positive interaction between the island’s prime minister, Andrew Holness, and a little girl by the name of Kasey, to the nation’s leader himself.
Green shares more on his timely thought process, “I was inspired by a post made earlier today by our prime minister, where he was encouraging a young girl called Kasey, about her aspirations of becoming an artist. I decided to paint this portrait after a comment I made was acknowledged by Mr Holness himself. I want to use my talents and abilities to be of value to my nation and the world at large.”
The passion to become a visual artist, he explained, is one that developed over a period of time. He always considered himself to be a creative growing up, but things took a professional turn four years ago following the life-changing impact of cultural pioneers and stalwarts before his time. “It was reggae legend Bob Marley who told us to do what we loved so that we don’t work a day in our lives. So the focus and purpose was to do something that came naturally, never got tired of doing and that I was proud to pursue,” he revealed.
Inspired by the culture and the struggle and triumphs of his fellow Jamaicans, he shared that he explores a wide range of artistry, including landscape, abstract, surrealism, and paint portraits. “The technique I choose to work with is expressionism. You can see strokes in the art, identify different colours. I work with acrylic and oil paints,” he said, adding, “I also offer sip and paint services and I do mentorship with children at schools and children’s homes.”
His favourite element of art is actually painting faces, because, according to Green, when you paint a portrait for someone, it resonates with that individual. And others, he says, may find that portrait very intriguing considering they might know the person.”
The self-taught artist shared that one of the most celebrated paintings he has done to date is a picture of recording artiste and social media influencer Wayne Mitchell and his daughter, Ivy.
Green described Mitchell as an outstanding Jamaican. He not only grew up admiring his music, he has also been equally impressed with the creative influence, being a strong role model, father, husband and friend. “He is an example that we need in society today, not only for myself, but for men in general. Being family-oriented, career driven, sociable and innovative, and this is what inspired me to share my talent with him and his family as a gift.”
Additionally, he has painted four murals in and around the Corporate Area of Kingston and St Andrew: one with Digicel Foundation located at Rockfort, a few blocks away from his basic school and childhood home; another one at Totally Delicious off Manning’s Hill Road, the third one as in collaboration with Kingston Creative entitled ‘Roots Revival in Downtown’ and the recent one is in the community of Tivoli Gardens called ‘Alkebulan’.
“The interest in painting murals stemmed from my own experiences in admiring the previously created wall pieces, and drawing on inspiration to create others in a similarly uplifting and beautiful fashion,” he pointed out.
With a solid support system in family friends and social media, he says the feedback has been amazing so far. Understanding the marginalisation that comes with being an artist, he continues to be thankful for the opportunities received during his imaginative journey thus far, “What motivates me is the fact that I can use something natural to alleviate my struggles, make connections and change lives. Art is my purpose. I’m a consumer but I am also a producer. Through this art form, I am able to tell a tale and preserve my culture. Even though the revenue and the income aren’t steady, there is a willpower that comes with knowing you can make a difference.”
Endorsing and celebrating the unique nature of the craft, he is happy that art supports individuality and ideals. He hopes that his work will leave a lasting and positive impact on those around him.
His advice to aspiring artists is to see the beauty and purity in everything. “You get inspiration from everything that is around you and inside of you. Try not to be judgemental and overly critical towards others. Be patient with yourself. And be you to fullness.”
