The History of the McCoy Prize

The Founding of the McCoy Prize (2001)

The McCoy Prize was established in 2001 to encourage and reward excellence in Caymanian-produced fine art, fine craft, and fine art photography. The Cayman Islands National Museum and the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands jointly organized the annual competition and exhibition, with sponsorship from the McCoy family of North Side. The Prize was publicly launched in May 2001, coinciding with the exhibition "The Real McCoy: An Exhibition of Authentic Caymanian Furniture by Wilbanks Miller." Many of the featured pieces were on loan from the Harris McCoy family.

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As the creator and sponsor of the McCoy Prize, Mr. Harris McCoy III expressed his commitment to supporting Caymanian artists, stating:
"I am delighted to be a part of such a worthwhile undertaking and to continue the tradition started by my grandparents some 80 years ago of supporting Caymanian artisans. It is my hope that this prize will create continued support in the community for things Caymanian and instill pride and deserved respect for the talents of Caymanian artists."

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The inaugural press release outlined the Prize's purpose: to support the growth and development of Caymanian artistsby awarding an annual cash prize to an outstanding artist whose work demonstrated significant improvement through dedication and education. Winners received CI$1,500 in cash and CI$1,500 towards an educational art program, and they were required to donate a newly created piece to the National Museum’s permanent collection, named the McCoy Collection.

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The First McCoy Prize Exhibition & Award (2002)

The first McCoy Prize exhibition opened at the National Museum in May 2002, featuring 44 artworks by 25 artists. At the August 17th award ceremony, Nickola McCoy (no relation to the sponsors) won the inaugural McCoy Prize for her painting "Years in Review," as selected by a panel of five judges. The recognition and exposure from winning the McCoy Prize played a key role in her artistic development.

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The Award Design

Artist Wray Banker designed the McCoy Prize award, drawing inspiration from the steeple of the early North Side United Church. The original spire, preserved by the McCoy family, was later donated to the National Museum. Symbolizing aspiration and excellence, the spire reflects the heights of creative achievement that the McCoy Prize aimed to recognize. Sculptor Horacio Esteban crafted the award from Caymanian mahogany and local limestone, honoring the island’s artistic heritage.

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Expanding the McCoy Prize (2003-2006)

2003: The 2nd McCoy Prize

• A second award category for Fine Craft was introduced.

• The People’s Choice Award was launched, allowing the public to vote.

• National Gallery hosted the event.

• Winners:

  • Fine Art: "Transfiguration" by Randy Smith

  • Fine Craft: Blown glass by Davin Ebanks

 

2004: The 3rd McCoy Prize

• A third award category for Fine Art Photography was introduced.

• The exhibition opened during International Museum Day (May 22, 2004) at the National Museum.

• Despite Hurricane Ivan’s disruption, the award ceremony was held on November 20, 2004.

• Winners:

  • Fine Art: "Chollette Chalet" by Randy Chollette

  • Fine Craft: "Cayman Quilters" group

  • Fine Art Photography: "Young Salt" by Lennon Christian

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2005: The 4th McCoy Prize

• Exhibition opened on May 28, 2005, at the National Gallery.

• No Fine Craft award was given due to low submissions post-Hurricane Ivan.

• Winners:

  • Fine Art: "Overexposed Goodness" by Aston Ebanks

  • Fine Art Photography: "The Colours of Ivan" by Art Pasquali

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2006: The 5th McCoy Prize

• A pre-jury selection process was introduced to enhance competition quality.

• The Best in Show award was introduced with a CI$4,000 prize and a solo exhibition for the winner.

• The Artists’ Award was introduced, voted on by participating artists.

• Total prize funding increased from CI$3,000 to CI$10,000.

• Winners:

  • Fine Art: "Maiden Plum" by Nasaria Suckoo Chollette

  • Fine Craft: "The Dirty Necklace" by Tenson Scott

  • Fine Art Photography: "The Light Bath" by Sheree Ebanks

  • Best in Show: "The Dirty Necklace" by Tenson Scott

  • Artists’ Award: Tenson Scott

 

The Impact of the McCoy Prize

Over the years, the McCoy Prize provided a significant platform for Caymanian artists, fostering professional growth and public recognition. Many winners used the opportunity to further develop their artistic skills and careers.

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The McCoy Prize also played a crucial role in shaping the Caymanian artistic landscape, encouraging artists to explore bold themes and refine their craft. As sponsors, organizers, and judges noted, the competition contributed to a more mature and informed approach to art in the Cayman Islands. Submissions over the years became more diverse and thought-provoking, demonstrating an evolving national aesthetic.

 

The Final McCoy Prize (2007)

The sixth and final McCoy Prize was held in 2007, with a continued mission to protect, promote, and showcase Caymanian heritage through art. The Prize sought to recognize works that challenged conventional perspectives, demonstrated remarkable vision and technical excellence, and contributed to the broader cultural conversation.

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While the McCoy Prize is no longer awarded, its legacy endures through the McCoy Collection at the National Museum and the impact it had on the Caymanian arts community. The competition elevated the standard of fine art, fine craft, and fine art photography in the Cayman Islands and left an indelible mark on its cultural history.