When it comes to Belizean art, he's being called G.O.A.T. - _T_he_ G_reatest_ O_f_ A_ll_ T_ime and last night at the Bliss Centre for the Performing Arts, George Gabb was honored with a tribute. The event was carried live on Channel 7 and here are highlights.
At 76 years old, he's no longer the nimble lion who sculpted the sleeping giant but last night Gabb seemed much like the gifted giant that he's come to be known as. And the tributes are coming in bundles. First there is a DVD compiling all his Channel 7 interviews, and a book that puts together his most well known works. Minister Mark Espat said Gabb should make us all proud to be Belizeans.
Hon. Mark Espat, Minister of Culture
"Like your work, your life has been exemplified by two qualities that you say are crucial to all forms of art: movement and strength. Your life and works command all of us to hunt with renewed hunger...that hunger that has secured for you an enviable place on the landscape of Belizean history. You make being Belizean so much more valuable."
And last night an audience of 400 got to share in those treasures, viewing his works which were on display, and listening to some of his poems as performed by Rene Villanueva and Sylvana Woods.
And after that the Belize Theater Company performed Gabb's 1964 play, 'Yellowtail' an existential meditation on nature and independence.
George Gabb, Gifted Giant
"I did it (Yellowtail) with no mindfulness of virtue. I did it with sincerity. I did it hoping that people would read where I am coming from that we have to come together regardless of what is going on."
His message is still relevant and finally now it's come full circle as that message of support has finally gotten back to Gabb.
George Gabb,
"I am grateful…to see that not only a certain sector of people in the country appreciate what I have done but it seems like everybody is appreciating what I have done and its heart lifting. And to see the amount of people that come around and shake my hands…its not that I want the praise but its good to know that they do care. I could see more sincerity now than I've ever seen in all my life."
The Gabb tribute will be repeated on Sunday, right here on Channel 7.