Bob Marley's visual legacy permeates Jamaica, evident in vibrant murals adorning walls across the island. These artworks, often portraying his distinctive image, dreadlocks, and Rastafarian symbols, symbolize the cultural richness and musical influence of the reggae legend. His iconic face has become a universal symbol, transcending borders and embodying messages of love, unity, and social justice. The visual culture of Bob Marley stands as a powerful testament to his enduring influence on Jamaican identity and the worldwide appreciation of reggae music and its cultural significance.
You a-go tired fe see me face
Can't get me out of the race
Oh, man, you said I'm in your place (Bob Marley & the Wailers, 1980, Uprising)
Bob Marley, Denham Town, (2018) mural by Michael Robinson
Birthday Bash, Negril (2018)
Trenchtown, Kingston, (2018)
Denham Town, Kingston, (2018)
Winfred Beach, Portland (2018)
Di Atlantic Bar, Portland (2018) mural by Katapul
Denham Town, Kingston
Denham Town, Kingston (2017)
Trenchtown, Kingston (2017)
Trenchtown Yard, Kingston (2017)
Sign at Tuff Gong Studios, Kingston (2018)
Downtown, Kingston (2017)
Unfinished, New Kingston (2018)
Maryland, Kingston (2018) mural by Michael Robinson
Montego Bay (2018) mural by Anthony Scott
Water Lane, Downtown Kingston (2021)
Bob Marley Museum, New Kingston (2021)
Able Record Shop, Negril (2018)
The photographs used in this blog by Tracey Thorne our from her series Hand-painted Jamaica started in 2017 which explores Jamaican visual culture found painted on walls across the island. The initial project received support from Arts Council England.
The artist made work across the island but also visited the Bob Marley Museum, Tuff Gong Studios and Trenchtown Culture Yard all in Kingston to make some of the images that have been used in this blog.
Work in the series is available for publication or exhibitions, as well as for research contract the artist here.