Jagath Kosmodara: Making waves in Jamaica

Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks

Artist, comic illustrator, designer and advertising professional, Jagath Kosmodara is no stranger amongst artistic circles in Sri Lanka. 

A veteran of global communication agencies such as J. Walter Thompson and Lintas, Kosmodara’s work has been applauded by both connoisseurs of fine art and leading brands alike for his unique ability to grasp the roots of tradition and culture and interpret those nuances into his artistic creations.

His most recent accomplishment is a collaborative project on a children’s book published recently in Kingston, Jamaica entitled ‘That’s a Good Idea’ by acclaimed Jamaican author and storyteller, Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks. 

Revolving around a host of themes ranging from identity, human relationships, values, cultural beliefs and traditions, ‘That’s a Good Idea’ introduces readers to a young boy named ‘Johnny’. Filled with curiosity, Johnny is on a constant quest for answers to the numerous questions that baffle him. 

Questions about how his ancestors arrived from the motherland of Africa, about the Great Spirit of Jamaica and more. Through the loving and insightful wisdom of his grandfather, he finds the answers he seeks as they are regaled unto him through colourful tales and catchy rhymes about Jamaican folklore passed down through generations.  Author Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks, PhD., Founder of Ntukuma – The Storytelling Foundation of Jamaica, Founder of Ananse SoundSplash – The Annual Storytelling Festival in Jamaica and an Inductee of the Caribbean Hall of Fame for Cultural Research, was very generous in her praise for Kosmodara’s work:

“I cannot believe that Jagath has never seen the Caribbean’ said Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks, ‘because his images are so beautifully Caribbean. His recognition of the need to portray all the characters, human and animal, as beautiful in soul and spirituality proved to be invaluable. It is important to me that we understand the value of our traditions and the need to render all aspects of our sharing of these traditions irresistible. Jagath’s resonance with this is compelling and is a critical component of a story which is so needed in this time and which will serve future generations. The idea of our intrinsic worth is beautiful. Jagath captured that lovingly and exquisitely.”

When asked about his experience working on the book, Kosmodara had this to say: “I enjoy bringing stories to life through my illustrations’ Kosmodara said. ‘In this instance, the challenge was to visualise stories from another country using tones and colours that would resonate with readers over there. It was a privilege to have collaborated with Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks and Brer Anancy Press; both of whom helped me immensely by providing me with feedback when I required it so that my work could be crafted to perfection. I’m very happy with how the book has turned out and look forward to working with them again.”

‘That’s a Good Idea’ is published by Brer Anancy Press and is available for purchase at Amazon.com. An activity book which would help further engage readers is also currently underway. 

Jagath Kosmodara currently serves as Snr. Creative Director at Ashraff Associates. He is presently working on his next project.