VICTORIA, Seychelles — Jacquelin Morel, a young abstract artist from Anse Kerlan, Praslin, who suffers from focal epilepsy, met with the Head of State, President Wavel Ramkalawan, yesterday morning at State House to share his passion and some of his artwork. He was accompanied by his mother, Dolores Morel. The 20-year-old will turn 21 on June 6.
“It is the first time I visit State House and meet the President. The idea was to present my abstract artwork, which is done mainly with ballpoint pens. From what I know, I am the only one in Seychelles using this particular technique,” said Jacquelin. He added that his discussion with the President focused mainly on how he can promote his art outside Seychelles, his hope to organise an exhibition, and the challenges he faces, such as the lack of materials like ballpoint pens, easels, cards, and frames, which he has to import at high cost.
Jacquelin described his artistic ability as a gift from God. “I started drawing in primary school. My mother would give me a piece of paper and ask me to draw so I wouldn’t disturb the class. I began with pencils, and soon, other students became interested.” He completed his primary and secondary education on Praslin, before graduating with a distinction of 98% from the Seychelles Institute of Technology in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Despite his qualifications, he has struggled to find stable employment and has applied for 22 jobs. Mrs Morel said her son had faced a lot of harassment in the workplace, but that she was happy he was now at home with her, focusing on his art and even visiting hotels to showcase his work.
