In an unprecedented showcase, renowned Trinidadian artist Jackie Hinkson has opened his private creative journals to the public at the National Library (Nalis) in Port of Spain. The exhibition, running until November 22, features over 210 sketchpads containing approximately 9,000 drawings, offering a deeply personal glimpse into his six-decade artistic journey. This marks the first time Hinkson, 83, has publicly displayed this extensive body of work, which spans from the mid-to-late 1980s and includes raw, unpolished sketches never intended for exhibition. About 60 of these sketchpads, preserved by The University of the West Indies (UWI), are displayed in glass cases to protect their fragile ink and ballpoint works. Hinkson explained that these sketches were born from moments of spontaneity, often created in everyday settings like panyards or doctor’s offices, where he carried only a small notebook and pen. The interactive nature of the exhibition allows visitors to wear gloves and turn the pages, immersing themselves in the artist’s creative process. Hinkson emphasized the importance of preserving and sharing these works, which he sees as both art and history. He also reflected on his evolving themes, from capturing Trinidad’s disappearing vernacular architecture to exploring social change and human behavior. Despite his accolades, including the Chaconia Medal (Gold) and UNESCO recognition, Hinkson remains committed to the discipline of work and the lifelong pursuit of artistic growth. He hopes younger artists will find inspiration in his sketchpads, while leaving interpretation to their own perspectives. Even in the digital age, Hinkson defends the relevance of traditional sketchpads, asserting that the fundamental challenges of composition, line, and color remain unchanged, whether working manually or digitally.
Decades of Hinkson’s sketches in first-of-a-kind exhibit at Nalis
