In celebration of Tourism Awareness Week 2024, a powerful mural was unveiled today in downtown Kingston’s Art District, underscoring Jamaica’s commitment to peace and unity through tourism. The mural, created by acclaimed Jamaican artist Sheldon Blake, encapsulates the theme “Tourism and Peace: Out of Many… One Love,” a tribute to the country’s diverse culture and its global tourism success.

The unveiling ceremony featured remarks from Permanent Secretary Jennifer Griffith, representing the Honourable Edmund Bartlett, Minister of Tourism. Minister Bartlett emphasized the mural’s importance as a symbol of the nation’s ongoing efforts to promote peace through tourism. He noted, “Tourism has long been a powerful force for good, connecting people from all walks of life, fostering understanding, and creating an environment where peace thrives through mutual respect and cross-cultural exchange.”

Bartlett also highlighted Jamaica’s record-breaking achievements in the tourism sector for 2024, despite facing significant challenges. He shared that the country has welcomed over 2 million stopover visitors and a total of 3 million visitors, including cruise arrivals, between January and mid-September. Additionally, tourism earnings have reached an impressive US$2.97 billion, reflecting the sector’s resilience and sustained growth. “Jamaica’s tourism agenda remains steadfast in ensuring that our industry grows while protecting the natural and cultural treasures that make us truly unique,” Bartlett said.

Executive Director of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo), Wade Mars, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the mural’s deep significance. “This mural, beautifully created by Sheldon Blake, holds profound meaning, particularly here in Kingston, the heartbeat of our island. A mural of this nature, promoting peace through tourism, was not just desired – it was needed,” said Mars. He added that the mural embodies TPDCo’s ongoing mission to enhance Jamaica’s tourism product and align with the Ministry of Tourism’s broader vision for sustainability and resilience. Minister Bartlett praised the muralist’s ability to capture the essence of the nation’s spirit, saying, “Sheldon’s work reminds us that our history, culture, and people are the foundation upon which our thriving tourism industry is built.”

The mural is prominently located along Peters Lane, just off Harbour Street, a bustling part of downtown Kingston’s Art District, which has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years. Speaking on behalf of Kingston Creative’s Executive Director, Andrea Dempster-Chung, Deputy Director Janet Crick highlighted the importance of the district, saying, “It is fitting that this unveiling takes place in the downtown Kingston Art District, which was voted the world’s best creative destination just last year. With over 100 murals in Water Lane and surrounding streets, we are well on our way to realizing the vision of Kingston becoming the creative capital of the Caribbean.”

Crick went on to express gratitude for the invaluable support of the Ministry of Tourism and its agencies, including the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), and TPDCo, all of which have played integral roles in the development of the Art District. “Thanks to the support of public, private, and third-sector partners, these streets have become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike,” Crick added.

Councillor for the Hagley Park Dvision, Waynette Strachan who delivered greetings on behalf of the Mayor of Kingston, His Worship, Cllr. Andrew Swaby, noted that the mural is poised to inspire both locals and visitors alike, underscoring the vital contributions of the tourism sector to Jamaica’s social and economic landscape. “It is more than a work of art… it is another vibrant expression of the soul of Kingston.”

Sheldon Blake, a Kingston native known for his vibrant murals and public art installations reflecting rich cultural heritage and the vibrant spirit of Jamaica was assisted by his colleague Rohan Cargill. A few of Blakes’s notable projects include the murals at the Youth for Arts and Recreational Development (YARD) Empire compound and the East Kingston Promenade in Kingston.

The public is invited to visit downtown Kingston’s Art District to experience this captivating work of art and reflect on its powerful message.