Baboucarr Faal, a renown Gambian artist on 24th February 2007, left The Gambia for an international arts exhibition at the Marcus Garvey Leadership Charter School, Oklahoma City, United States of America.

In a statement relayed to the Arts and Culture from his based in Oklahoma City ,Mr Faal said the arts exhibition will greatly help boost his artistic creativity.

According to him, the arts exhibition is a great opportunity for all the participating artists and a challenge for them in the world of arts.

Mr Faal described his participation at the arts exhibition as ‘a great honour and privilege for a Gambian artist’. “I will do all it takes to raise the country’s flag high in artistic profession. Gambian artist in the course of our stay in the USA will have an intensive interaction with prominent and international acclaimed artists from all parts of the world,” he stated.

Commenting on his carrier, Mr Faal said, he was inspired into artist profession at his tender age, far back in early 19970s. “I was motivated by Peace Corps officials who encouraged me to join in a batik workshop, and at one time I also received an artist award from Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, former President of The Gambia. In the course of my life as an artist, I attended many local and international arts exhibitions,” he said.

Dr Kevin A MC Pherson, Coordinator of Marcus Garvey Leadership Charter School, gave a brief historical background of the purpose of establishing a leadership school.

He noted that, the school is geared towards creating a learning community, supported by students, families, community members, teachers, administrators and civil society organisations with a philosophy that is deeply- rooted in the unique history, culture and ecology of the North-East quadrant of Oklahoma city.

“We also focus in developing each student in the level of learning, pride in academic achievement, the ability to engage in critical thinking and preparation of students to advance community and culture,” he concluded.