A charcoal portrait of Montserrat’s third National Hero, Alphonsus ‘Arrow’ Cassell, has been unveiled outside Montserrat Secondary School.
The world-renowned soca musician, who died in 2010 aged 60, is best known for his 1982 hit ‘Hot, Hot, Hot’.
In 2016, the government awarded him the Order of National Hero posthumously for his outstanding contribution to culture in the field of calypso, and international achievements in the genre of soca.
In recognition of Cassell’s achievements, Jermaine Wade of Montserrat Arts Council chaired a ceremony marking the unveiling of his permanent portrait on 15 March.
Wade described the picture as “more than mere art”, adding that it is a symbol of national pride, a tribute to a life of extraordinary service and a reminder of Montserrat’s ideals.
Cassell can be credited as “putting this little dot – Montserrat – on the map”, he said, calling him a “giant of a man”.
‘Love, unity and resilience’
Cheryl Hogan, principal of Montserrat Secondary School, said Montserrat’s third National Hero is the one that the students may be most familiar with.
“His music spoke of love, unity and resilience,” she told attendees. “His songs transcended borders and culture.”
She said Cassell’s music serves to unite everyone and people of all generations have been able to appreciate the messages contained in his songs.
The principal added that after the volcanic crisis, his music gave people hope.
“He shared in his song that he will be holding on, and it inspired others to hold on, and remain as well,” she said.
She concluded: “Let us continue to recognise Montserratians who have laid the foundation for our country, many through their hard work, and ensure that by engaging and educating our children, Montserrat will go from strength to strength.”
An ambassador
Premier Joseph E Farrell told attendees that Cassell promoted Montserrat and was an ambassador for the island.
He said it is with pride that he joined with the Cassell family and all of Montserrat in unveiling the third National Hero portrait.
“As persons pass by, our children will understand, our freedoms we have today was fought for by many,” he added.
Artist Kelvin ‘Tabu’ Duberry’s drawing was placed next to depictions of the territory’s two other National Heroes – William H Bramble and Robert W Griffith.
Duberry said it was a pleasure to be associated with the production of all three National Hero portraits, and particularly of a fellow calypsonian.
He said “the mighty Arrow” was not hard to draw because he was living in his time and was able to capture his mood.
Duberry then joined the premier in unveiling the portrait.
In attendance at the event were members of the Cassell family, Governor Sarah Tucker and several other members of the Governor’s Office, the government and the school.
Sheviyona Thomas, winner of the Junior Calypso Competition, sang Cassell’s song ‘Hold on to Your Property’ and ‘Will it for Your Children’.
And attendees also joined in a 30 second silence for Alphonsus Cassell’s brother and co-writer Justin ‘Hero’ Cassell who died in February aged 80.
