The Celebrity Artist, Jamaal Rolle stands with his artwork, the newly opened permanent exhibit, the Sports Legend Walk of Fame
Nassau, Bahamas - After last week's naming of Mychal Thompson Blvd, with NBA champion and his son Klay Thompson in attendance, the official grand
opening of the Sports Legend Walk of Fame also took place.
Twenty-eight permanent hand drawn portrait monuments created by internationally acclaimed 'Celebrity Artist'
Jamaal Rolle were unveiled and these artworks have immortalized the many great sports legends of the Bahamas from the last decade and beyond.
Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe spoke highly of the installation and about the artists saying, “I believe you have made history here in the Bahamas and the region. You are now a part of the living history in the Bahamas with what you
have done here.”
The many honourees, special guests, dignitaries and spectators
commented on the life-like portraits that seem to capture the spirit and
essence of each sporting legends, many were quick to express the immense detail of
Jamaal’s artistry.
Bahamian basketball legend, Mychal Thompson remarked on Jamaal's work saying, “This is great, this is remarkable,
what an amazing talent.”
The Prime Minister stated, “It is possible that
Jamaal’s talent can reach international acclaim in places such as the
Smithsonian and other elite art galleries and museums.”
Golden Girl Debbie
Ferguson even asked Jamaal for his autograph, and Rolle said this about that experience, “I was humbled and honoured to be asked for my
autograph, especially coming from one of the premiere icons in the history of
sports in the Bahamas. It was really a humbling experience that I will cherish
in being recognize by my fellow Bahamians.”
Rolle added, “Creating the portraits, I was infused with
much inspiration to do all of them. Some in particular held special meaning
to me, like Sir Durward Knowles who is a close personal friend and mentor, and someone I look up too."
"Cecil Cooke meant a lot to me as well, because I am
always happy to keep his memory and legacy alive for the Bahamian public. Mychal
Thompson, who was such an influential figure in putting the Bahamas on the map for basketball, then Rick Fox also a former basketball player, now actor and studio analyst for NBA TV; then there's
the Golden Girls who inspired our nation in this modern era of track and field;
and all of the legends have inspired me to be a better Bahamian and
strive for excellence.”
Jamaal continued, “I was happy when we sat and discuss the
formation of this idea in conjunction with Minister of Tourism and Minister of
Youth Sports and Culture and the input they allowed me to have with assisting
in the formation of this cultural, iconic establishment. Much
credit is due to both Ministers, and I know this exhibit will have a positive effect on Bahamians young and old, and all those that visit our country. They will learn more about the spirit and tenacity of our people. What has been established here is powerful symbol of
inspiration.”
