McCoy prizewinner speaks about his inspiration

Randy Cholette

His prizewinning piece for the McCoy exhibition, called
Cholette Chalet

Wednesday,  December 15, 2004

Caymanian artist, Randy Cholette, spoke about the inspiration for his McCoy prizewinning painting in the Fine Art section, called ‘Cholette Chalet,’ a striking abstract work composed of different interlocking sections, each one surrounded by a black outline.

Although essentially abstract, the work has strong figurative overtones, and by standing back from the painting, the observer can make out colours belonging to a traditional Cayman house, blue sky, and local rock formations.

Mr Cholette says that he is moving away from a strictly figurative style, moving towards a more abstract approach.

“I am going to continue on the same route; I am more comfortable with art now; I feel that I have found my own style; it is a gift from God.”

Mr Cholette explained that the inspiration for the piece was the home he lived in as a child, situated in George Town. 

Mr Cholette’s Rastafarian faith is also a source of inspiration to his art. “I am Rastafarian to the bone,” he says. 

When asked what he would be doing with the prize money, Mr Cholette said, “I will be paying my bills with it.”

Mr Cholette’s advice for young artists wishing to develop their talent was simple: “Try to travel,” he said. “I’ve been to England, to New York, Miami, Jamaica and Cuba, looking at the art there, and visiting the galleries.”

When asked what he thought Cayman society could do to encourage art, Mr Cholette replied: “The government could encourage art here more by putting artwork in public places,” Mr Cholette said, adding, “We need to invest in this. Not all the young people here want to go into banking.”

Mr Cholette, who used to work in steel-frame construction, took up art after receiving an injury to his shoulder. “I kept on persisting with the art, and it has paid off,” he said.

Mr Cholette said that he always looked forward to the McCoy Prize. “It is really something to work towards; preparing for the McCoy prize brings out the best in you.”

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