The Not So Fictional World Of Comic Illustrator Henry Grandison
Henry’s dedication to his craft and his ability to blend cultural narratives with various artistic techniques have established him as a prominent figure in the Jamaican art scene. His work continues to inspire and engage audiences, offering a unique perspective that bridges traditional and contemporary art forms.
Henry Grandison, a Jamaican visual artist, has made significant contributions to the art world through his diverse talents in painting, drawing, design, and illustration. Born in Annotto Bay, St. Mary, Jamaica, Henry’s artistic journey was influenced early on by his father, an impressionist
landscape painter, and a pivotal moment at the age of six when he was introduced to a Superman comic. This experience ignited his passion for art, leading him to draw everything around him and eventually pursue formal training at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Henry’s work is deeply rooted in an Afro-Caribbean sensibility, yet it resonates with a universal audience. His versatility spans various mediums, but he holds a particular passion for comic book art. He is the creator of “Maroonblack,” a Jamaican comic book series that weaves local folklore, legends, and myths into a fictional narrative filled with magic and intrigue. This series not only showcases his storytelling prowess but also reflects his commitment to integrating Jamaican culture into his art,
In addition to his work in comics, Henry has explored printmaking and digital painting. His foray into intaglio printmaking allowed him to delve into themes such as the connection between man and nature, and the duality of technology as both a tool for survival and a potential instrument of destruction. His digital paintings often tackle subjects like isolation, fear, the cosmos, and identity, with recurring motifs of cosmic nihilism and homelessness.
