Neville Garrick, renowned Jamaican graphic artist and visual designer, had died.
Garrick passed away on November 14, in California, after a very brief fight with cancer, his family shared in a statement.
He was most known for his award-winning work as art director for Bob Marley, creating timeless artwork covers and designs that are still being recognized globally today.
Earlier this year, his first album cover for Bob Marley “Rastaman Vibration” was also recognized by Billboard Magazine as being #22 Best 100 Album Cover of all time.
Garrick was also a founder and executive director of the Bob Marley Museum.
Naomi Garrick, the daughter of the late Garrick in reflecting on her father’s passing shared, “Words cannot adequately express the loss that we currently feel as a family to lose our beloved Neville.”
“He was a master storyteller, history keeper, poignant artist, author, speaker, proud Kingston College and UCLA graduate and for us father, Grandpa, “Poppy”, provider, and friend. Our hearts are broken as we come to terms with this loss. Neville in his own words “coloured the music” but for us, he coloured our lives. Our hope is that his work will continue to be enjoyed and celebrated around the world.”
Garrick’s journey through a 50-year art career left an indelible mark on the realm of music album covers, posters, logos, and staging designs. His artistic genius was most vividly seen in the more than 100 album covers he crafted for legendary reggae artists such as Bob Marley, Jimmy Cliff, Peter Tosh, Bunny Wailer, Burning Spear, The Wailers, Steel Pulse, and the I-Three, among others.
One of his most iconic achievements was the awe-inspiring “Haile Selassie I” stage and lighting design, which accompanied Bob Marley during the revolutionary 1970s and 1980s, solidifying Garrick’s status as a visionary force in the global creative landscape. Through his covers, he has played a significant role in introducing Ethiopian art and culture to Western audiences.
In 1974, he embarked on a notable career as the art director for Tuff Gong, a record label formed by the reggae group The Wailers in 1970.
Garrick’s friendship with Bob Marley positioned him as a keeper of the artist’s legacy. He was entrusted with designing an extension of the Bob Marley Museum and served as the very first Executive Director of the Bob Marley Foundation from 1990 to 1996. Garrick’s contributions extended beyond art, as he co-produced the 1992 documentary “Time Will Tell,” which featured rare insights from Bob Marley.
His last project with the Marley family was in the role of Historic Advisor for Paramount Films, Bob Marley Biopic: One Love slated for a February 2024 release date.
Read: Bob Marley biopic release date pushed to February 2024
He is survived by his brother (Derek), three children (Christopher, Naomi, and Nesta), grandchildren (Ajani, Leo, and Lola), former wife and close friend Colette, Niece (Jaean) and Grand-niece (Jaeda), family members.
Prime Minister Holness pays tribute
Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness sent condolences to the friends and family of Garrick in a statement posted on social media.
“Neville’s exceptional talents as a Jamaican graphic artist and visual designer left an indelible mark, particularly through his award-winning work as Art Director for Bob Marley. His timeless creations continue to resonate globally, a testament to his enduring legacy,” Holness said.
“During this challenging period, our collective thoughts and prayers are a source of support for his loved ones. May they draw strength and solace from the indelible memories of Neville’s influential contributions and the love that enveloped him. May his soul find eternal peace.”
