Photo by Azaleta Ishmael-Newry

Nassau, Bahamas -- Internationally acclaimed musician and composer Mike Oldfield (shown in photo at left) of Tubular Bells fame met with Jamaal Rolle, the Celebrity Artist (shown in photo at right) who has painted Pope Francis.  When admiring the life-like painting Oldfield remarked that it was absolutely splendid and described Rolle as a very gifted artist, with a responsibility to share that gift with others and to make an impact. 

Future collaborations between The Celebrity Artist and Oldfield are in motion to develop the talents of other young Bahamians who are gifted, but who do not have the necessary resources or support are on the drawing board. “There are so many kids who have a gift and never get to nurture it,” said Oldfield who made a financial contribution to assist Rolle with his trip to Rome.  

Jamaal Rolle, along with his publicist, Azaleta Ishmael-Newry are scheduled to present the life-like oil painting to Pope Francis at the Vatican on March 26, 2014.  

Photo by Azaleta Ishmael-Newry