Henry Grandison is a Jamaican Artist who is upholding the tradition of excellence of the Edna Manley School of Visual and Performing Arts. A multifaceted artist, his practice spans painting, drawing, design and Illustration but his passion is comic book art. The works are vibrant, alive and reflect his deep love for comics. Henry’s works is birthed in what he calls an Afro-Caribbean sensibility; yet, it has a universal appeal.
According to Henry
“Many things throughout my life contributed to me becoming an artist. For instance, my father is an impressionist landscape painter, so the language and form of art was a part of my daily life.
Henry Grandison, Illustration
However, the moment that truly sparked my fiery passion for art and drawing was the day my close friend handed me his superman comic when I was six years old. It was like holding a cartoon in my hand. I still remember that day vividly. The feel of the paper, the vibrant colours, all evoked a strong emotion within me. One image stood out to me more than the others did; it was a tiny drawing of Superman flying far away. The fact that, with just a few simple lines one could convey something so fantastic and amazing dumbfounded me. From that day onward, I knew I had to become an artist. I drew everything around me, trees, chairs, bottles and I even convinced my little brother to sit and pose for me... some of my teachers discouraged me from becoming an artist because they thought I could not make money as an artist. I knew they meant well, but it was very disheartening…Nevertheless, my passion and stubbornness did not let them discourage me from pursuing a career in Art…”
Paintings
DRAWINGS
With my wife’s help, I was finally able to develop my formal language in art. I am forever in her debt. I will try my best to make her dreams for our comic and art come to fruition.”