By Nordia Henry, Staff Reporter
Williams shows off one of his origial pieces - Market scene. Nordia Henry - Photo
THIS 45-YEAR-OLD man enjoys swimming, martial arts and counselling people, but possesses exceptional artistic ability.
"My dad was an artist, in fact, everyone in my family can either draw or paint but I am the only one who decided to make art more than just a hobby. I enjoy doing art because it expresses itself more than a letter or telephone, and above all, it helps people to relax," said artist Teddy Williams.
Williams was born on March 23, 1958 in Vineyard Town, Kingston. He attended Franklyn Town Primary School and then went on to Vauxhall Secondary School. Like some artists who need absolute quiet and isolation from others, Williams says it doesn't matter how much noise or excitement is going on around him, he is still able to concentrate very well.
"It takes me about a month to do a masterpiece, because art helps me to relax, relieves stress and teaches me how to be patient," says Williams. "Most of my inspiration for art pieces comes from Jamaican postcards, places like Holland Bamboo in St. Elizabeth, Dunn's River Falls in St. Ann, scenes like the market, sunset, moonlight and other activities around me."
Williams not only boasts about his talent for doing artwork but he's also an acrobatic dancer. At age 17, he discovered this talent. "A friend of mine suggested that we leave Kingston and that we did. Then I joined this dance group called 'Gymnast', thus giving me the opportunity to tour the island. Then there was this lady name Rosetta Johnston, she took us (the gymnast group) under her wings. I spent 12 years with her dance group called 'Rosetta All Star', then moved on to another dance group called 'Show Business' and the 'Comets'," of which I'm still a member." The dance groups are recognised throughout the north coast and they move to cultural rhythms performing kumina, limbo, gymnastics, and fire dance.
WINNING COMPETITIONS
Williams has entered several art competitions and emerged victorious.
"Ocho Rios Library always have a Visual Arts Competition every year and I've entered and received certificates for second, third and fourth places and a trophy for first place. I sell most of my work to tourists on Fridays at Sandals and Dunn's River Falls. Locals also buy them, but most of the sales come from tourists."
At present, he holds the title of Freelance Dancer and president for the Craft People Association at Sandals Dunn's River, and speaks highly of the general manager, Louis Grant. "Mr. Grant is very understanding, always emphasising the needs of craft people and giving them some sense of direction," he said.
