At 72 years old, Manchester-born artist Nugent Hewitt continues to prove that creativity knows no age limit, turning decades of passion and perseverance into gold.
Hewitt has been named the Most Outstanding Overall Artist in the 2025 Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) Visual Arts Competition, receiving six gold medals and one silver medal this year.
“I feel so good… I even got for the most intuitive artist for 2025,” he told JIS News in an interview.
Hewitt’s artistic journey began decades ago.
“From I was going to school, I love art… When I write in my book and there’s a half a page, what I do, I draw,” he said, recalling his time at Hatfield Primary in Manchester.
His talent was recognised by classmates who would pay him to draw for them.
This is not Hewitt’s first success in JCDC competitions, having earned several medals before the 2025 haul.
The seasoned artist encourages young artists to pursue their craft and showcase their work.
“I have to say to you, whatever you are doing, try to do it to the best of your ability, whether painting or dancing, singing or whatever, and listen to others. Take what you have and show it to somebody else and ask them questions, like, ‘Am I doing good? Is this piece of work good? What can I do [to make it better?]’ ” Hewitt said
He attributes part of his success to discipline and faith.
“First thing I say [before I start my work], Jah, help me to accomplish a nice piece of work… because you can’t live without God, you know. God is the source of my inspiration,” he said.
Describing his creative process, Hewitt said: “When I’m into a certain mood, I just sit down and paint, and maybe it will take like two and a half days and so on… it all depends on the subject.”
Despite being the oldest competitor in this year’s competition, Hewitt is undaunted.
“I feel so good, but at the same time I’m looking on everybody like they are my age, because as an artist everyone must move together… no matter what age you are… because that is not what counts. What really counts, you have something to give the public, right?” he said.
The most outstanding pieces from this year’s JCDC Visual Arts Competition are currently on display at Olympia Art Centre on Old Hope Road in St Andrew. The exhibition features an array of media, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, photography, and digital art.
Hewitt, who turns 73 in January, is already thinking about next year’s competition.
“I want to be better; better subject, better rendition, applying paints, you know?”