By Ashlee Sargeant on Tuesday, 1 March, 2022 at 11:13 AM

Fifteen-time NIFCA award-winning student, Evan McDonald was nominated for artist of the year on January 21st, 2022.

Upon hearing the news McDonald was completely caught off guard. The Barbadian artist said the past couple of years were troubling not only because of COVID-19 but also because he was going through some internal battles. He was unsure of who he was as an artist and if it was wise to continue to pursue his artistry full time.

“My fathers’ side of the family are immigrants, so they felt obligated to ensure their sacrifices were not in vain. They always saw my craft as a hobby it was only ever taken seriously when the thought of me becoming an architect or a teacher was brought up so when I found out I was nominated I definitely asked myself was I deserving of this?” said McDonald.

This feeling was short-lived as he was reminded by his peers that persons voted for him to not only be nominated on the shortlist of the “Gine on People’s Choice Awards" but he also made it to the finals.

The artist said being surrounded by creativity in a space that was unapologetically Barbadian was a breath of fresh air. Even though he did not win, McDonald believed that he made his mark since more of his peers and the public now know who he is.