MIAMI – A large number of attendees turned out Thursday (Oct. 10) out to share in the opening of the exhibition “BOB MARLEY MESSENGER” celebrating the life and legacy of Jamaican international reggae icon Robert Nesta Marley, OM, at the historical HistoryMiami museum, in downtown Miami.
In addition to the large collection of displays including posters, memorabilia, photographs, and recordings, visitors to the event enjoyed live performance from Kymani Marley, recording artist and son of the late international icon who entertained with selections from the Bob Marley collection.
Jamaica’s newly appointed Consul General, Franz N. Hall in his first official public appearance congratulated the HistoryMiami for their vision in mounting the three-month exhibition which shows Marley as man, musician, father and friend.
Describing the work of the late international icon, Mr. Hall proudly said that Marley, Jamaica’s most popular musician, continues to impact globally as his message still bears relevance today as when they were first written, over thirty years ago. “A true messenger, he was not only writing for his time, but for all times,” he added.
The Consul General also spoke of Marley’s link with South Florida throughout his life and career, which he said reflected the story of so many Jamaicans, who, although not achieving the same level of fame as Marley, have contributed to the development and cultural enrichment of the city of Miami and its environs. “It is therefore fitting that the exhibition should be mounted in Miami.”
The three-month travelling exhibition will run through January (2014) as its last stop before moving to its permanent home in Jamaica.
Curated by the GRAMMY Museum at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles, California, visitors to the exhibition, “BOB MARLEY MESSENGER” will explore the life of Marley through artifacts, rare photographs and interactive elements, as well as featured items from the private collection of the Marley family. The broad array of items include Marley’s famous Les Paul guitar, memorabilia such as ticket stubs, concert posters and tour books.
Interactives such as a drumming station will allow visitors to learn how to play a reggae beat. A series of planned programs throughout the duration of the exhibition will also include panel discussions on the life of Bob Marley with journalists, historians and music industry professionals; several music programs; and a Jamaican-themed family festival featuring children’s book author Cedella Marley, also daughter of the late music legend.
HistoryMiami’s President and Chief Executive Officer Ramiro Ortiz, and Museum Director and Chief Operating Officer, Stuart Chase welcomed the hundred of patrons who joined in the night-long Jamaican cultural experience through music, food and entertainment provided by Grace Foods; Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB); South Florida restauranters, Jamaica Kitchen; and South Florida reggae band ‘Jahfe’. Other participating sponsors include Miami-Dade County, and car2go.
Bob Marley Messenger Exhibition Makes Last Stop In Miami Before Going Home To Jamaica…Forever
