Bound Waters – Confluence: A Cross-Atlantic Dialogue in Art and Identity

Bound Waters – Confluence is a compelling duo exhibition currently on display at Olympia Mini Gallery in Kingston, Jamaica. Running from 8th to 17th May 2025, the exhibition features the works of Jamaican artist Richard Nattoo and British-Jamaican artist Roisin Jones. Curated by Segolene Py, the show delves into themes of Caribbean identity, diaspora, and cultural memory, using water as both a literal medium and a metaphorical thread.(Exhibition Crave)

Exploring Identity Through Water

The exhibition's central theme revolves around "living water," serving as a metaphor for connection, resilience, and the fluidity of cultural identity. Nattoo and Jones employ various mediums, including watercolours, ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media—to create pieces infused with water sourced from Jamaican rivers. This choice not only grounds their work in the physical landscape of Jamaica but also symbolises the flow of stories, traditions, and histories that traverse geographical boundaries. (Instagram, Facebook)

Reimagining River Mumma

A focal point of the exhibition is the reimagining of River Mumma, a mythical guardian of Jamaica's waterways. Rather than retelling her traditional story, the artists present a new dimension of her mythology, portraying her as a symbol of feminine power, ancestral connection, and ecological reflection.

This reinterpretation invites viewers to engage with the folklore in a contemporary context, reflecting on the enduring significance of such myths in understanding cultural identity. (Exhibition Crave)

Exhibition Events

The exhibition is accompanied by a series of events designed to foster community engagement and deeper exploration of its themes:

• Opening Reception: Thursday, 8th May, 6–9 PM

• Artist Talk: Friday, 9th May, 3 PM

• Watercolour Workshop: Saturday, 10th May, 1–3 PM

• Morning Coffee Finissage and Performance: Saturday, 17th May, 11 AM–12 PM (Exhibition Crave)

  
  

These events provide opportunities for attendees to engage directly with the artists and the creative process, enriching their understanding of the works on display.

A Confluence of Perspectives

Bound Waters – Confluence stands as a testament to the power of art in bridging cultural divides and exploring complex identities. Through their collaborative efforts, Nattoo and Jones offer a nuanced perspective on the Caribbean experience, one that acknowledges the past while envisioning new narratives for the future.(Exhibition Crave)

For those interested in contemporary art that challenges and inspires, this exhibition is a must-see.