The long awaited “Jamaica 50: Constructing a Nation” Exhibition opens on September 23, 2012 in the Institute of Jamaica’s (IOJ) Lecture Hall, commencing at 11:00 a.m.

 “Jamaica 50: Constructing a Nation is a snapshot and a celebration of Jamaica’s Independence and highlights a selection of the achievements and struggles of the last fifty years. The exhibition is a collaborative effort which includes specimen, art pieces and artefacts from the National Gallery and the Natural History Museum of Jamaica,” stated Dr. Jonathan Greenland, Director of the Museums of History & Ethnography.

 Dr. Shani Roper, Curator explains that “The exhibition is divided into three major sections: Section one examines Jamaica’s path to independence using memorabilia, flags, images and audiovisual selections. Secondly, the audience will look at the development of the national symbols in fauna and flora that shape our beautiful Jamaican landscape.”

 The third section explores how nation-building has been advanced through political engagement as well as the visual and performing arts, Roper stated. 

The exhibition will be opened by the Honourable Edward Seaga, who participated in many of the critical decisions surrounding Independence and who has been intimately involved with the nation-building process.

 Dr. Roper believes that the exhibition will capture the hearts of the Jamaican people as they witness many of the critical decisions made surrounding Independence, explore the rich biodiversity of our landscape and experience the creative spirit of our people through elements of the visual and performing arts.

 Museums of History and Ethnography is a national leader in the collection, preservation and documentation of Jamaica’s material culture and aims to stimulate engagement in Jamaica’s history and contemporary life. The Division is committed to serving the people of Jamaica through effective and object – centred programmes that seek to engender an appreciation of Jamaica’s rich material heritage.