Kool Herc X Reggae Poster Contest
- George
- Apr 23
- 2 min read
The International Reggae Poster Contest proudly presents the Art of Reggae Exhibition featuring the top 100 submissions which pay tribute to the legendary Clive Campbell, aka DJ Kool Herc, and honour reggae’s influence on Hip Hop.
The National Gallery of Jamaica (NGJ), in partnership with the International Reggae Poster Contest (IRPC), proudly presents the 30th Art of Reggae Exhibition. Honoring reggae’s influence on Hip Hop, this year’s exhibition will feature the top 100 submissions from the 9th International Reggae Poster Contest, centred around the theme “The Jamaican Roots of Hip Hop.”
The collection pays tribute to the legendary Clive Campbell, aka DJ Kool Herc, the Jamaican-born innovator who laid the foundation for hip hop culture. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1955, Campbell migrated to the Bronx, New York, at age 12, bringing with him the deep musical influence of Jamaica’s sound system culture. Inspired by Jamaican DJs like U-Roy, King Stitt, and Count Matchuki, he revolutionized music by rapping over riddims and perfecting the instrumental break—leading to the creation of the breakbeat, the very heartbeat of hip hop.
The Mission of the IRPC
Founded in 2011 by the late Michael Thompson and Maria Papaefstathiou, the International Reggae Poster Contest (IRPC) is a global celebration of reggae and its far-reaching cultural impact. The contest serves a greater purpose—advocating for the establishment of a Reggae Hall of Fame museum and performance center in Kingston, Jamaica.
Additionally, it aims to raise awareness and support for Alpha School of Music, part of a vocational music programme run by the Sisters of Mercy since 1892. The school provides holistic education and training for underprivileged youth, nurturing the next generation of musicians and creatives. Join us as we celebrate reggae, hip hop, and Jamaica’s enduring musical legacy. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a reggae lover, or simply curious about the roots of hip hop, this exhibition is not to be missed!
