Leonia McKoy

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Leonia, born in Kingston, Jamaica, discovered her passion for clay at Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. As a testament to her dedication and artistic prowess, Leonia not only navigated the intricate world of ceramics but also emerged as a standout talent, earning the prestigious Dean's Award upon her graduation in 2001. Her journey of artistic exploration, however, did not stop at accolades; it extended into the realms of cultural expression and innovation. 

 

Leonia employs the African Coil Technique in her craft. It is a method that transcends mere craftsmanship; it is a dance with tradition, a dialogue with heritage. The African Coil Technique, a time-honored method with roots in indigenous African pottery, is reinvigorated under Leonia's touch. Each piece she creates tells a story, not just of clay and form, but of cultural continuity and evolution. 

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In each piece she sculpts, Leonia breathes life into the clay, infusing it with the spirit of her Jamaican roots and the ancient echoes of African craftsmanship. Her art becomes a celebration of heritage, a testimony to the enduring power of culture, and an invitation to journey through the corridors of tradition with a contemporary guide.