The LeadNorth Campus

Jamaican Consulate Donates Wooden Sculpture To North Campus

Cut out image of the cup of harmony.
ERIC FORTEZA / THE LEAD

The Cup of Harmony—a 20-inch tall wooden sculpture with a 15.5 by 12 inch base—was donated to North Campus in July by the Jamaican Consulate.

It will be featured at the North Campus Art Gallery located in the 5000 building as a symbol of the friendship between the college and the Jamaican government.

“I am particularly pleased that the Cup of Harmony represents the harmony among many, many people [and among] diverse cultures and that is what Miami Dade College North Campus is all about,” said North Campus President Malou C. Harrison.

Added Franz Hall, the consulate general of Jamaica in Miami: “We have a large student body of Jamaicans here at North Campus, so there is a natural connection with the consulate because we are forced to provide services to the Jamaican community and the students are part of that community.”

The sculpture was commissioned by the consulate general of Jamaica in Miami to celebrate Jamaica’s 50th Anniversary of Independence, which took place on Aug.  6, 2012. It was created by renowned Jamaican sculptor Fitz Harrack.  He was best known for his sculptures in the wood, ceramic and metal media.

The Cup of Harmony is believed to be the last sculpture Harrack created before his death on Jan. 10, 2013. He was 67. Now it will forever connect MDC and Jamaica.

“It will serve as a legacy for thousands of students to come,” Harrison said.

The statue was unveiled at the library at North Campus on July 12.    

“It was very empowering,”  said Jasmine Alexandra, who witnessed the unveiling. “It is great to see that our community is thinking about the future.”

The Cup of Harmony has since been permanently moved to the North Campus Art Gallery. It is open—free of charge—Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m.   

“[The Cup of Harmony] is absolutely beautiful, and the more you see it, I think, the more you get to see what is in the work.” said Georgette Perez, the interim dean of students at North Campus.