Ras Daniel Heartman was more than just an artist or actor—he was a cultural icon whose work captured the essence of Rastafari and cemented its place in global consciousness. Born Lloyd George Roberts in Whitfield Town, Heartman became a defining figure in Caribbean art, using his immense talent to create some of the most recognised depictions of Rastafarian life. His influence extended beyond Jamaica, making him an international symbol of Rastafari and black identity.
Despite Ras Daniel Heartman’s immense contributions to Jamaican art and culture, mainstream recognition eluded him for much of his life. It was not until July 29, 1980, that he received formal acknowledgment when the Council of the Institute of Jamaica awarded him the Centenary Medal (1879–1979). The award recognised his “sustained and outstanding contribution to cultural development in Jamaica in the field of Art.” This honour, though significant, stood in contrast to the broader lack of institutional support for his work, reflecting the disconnect between his influence and the art establishment’s willingness to celebrate him.
A Self-Taught Master of His Craft
Heartman’s artistic journey began in 1958, when he started creating posters and signboards to support his family. His real passion, however, lay in personal works—portraits that reflected the depth, resilience, and dignity of the Rastafarian movement. As demand for his art grew, he transitioned to printing his pieces, allowing more Jamaicans and international audiences to engage with his work.
His Prince Emanuel (Rasta Baby) portrait became one of the most iconic images in Jamaican art history, appearing on posters, T-shirts, and merchandise worn by figures like The Wailers and rock artists like The Rolling Stones’s Keith Richards. His depictions of Rastafarians—intense, noble, and deeply expressive—challenged the stereotypes that had long marginalised the faith.
Beyond his artistic contributions, Heartman also played an active role in one of the most significant moments in Jamaican history—Haile Selassie’s visit to the island on April 21, 1966. His placard of the Emperor was displayed at the Kingston airport to welcome Selassie on his visit to the island. In return for his contributions to the movement, he was awarded a gold coronation medal by the Emperor himself, an honour given to just thirteen Rastafarians.
A Legacy to Protect
One of Ras Daniel Heartman’s most renowned pieces is Prince Emanuel, also called Rasta Baby, a striking portrait of a young Rastafarian child with intense eyes and a calm, almost meditative expression. This artwork became a defining image of Jamaican culture, frequently reproduced and sold in craft markets, gift shops, and on various forms of merchandise, a testament to its deep cultural significance.
However, Heartman’s work has been subject to extensive unauthorised reproduction, making him one of Jamaica’s most plagiarised artists. His images continue to circulate on posters, clothing, and digital platforms, often without acknowledgment or financial benefit to his estate. While many who use his art may see it as a tribute, the reality is that it constitutes intellectual theft. His son, Ato K.D. Roberts, is now actively working to safeguard his father’s artistic legacy, ensuring that his contributions to Jamaican art and culture are recognised and respected.
Breaking Barriers on Screen
In the early 1970s, Jamaica was still grappling with deep-rooted prejudices against Rastafarians. Just a decade earlier, the Coral Gardens massacre of 1963 saw police crack down violently on Rastafarians, solidifying their status as social outcasts. Against this backdrop, Heartman’s role as Pedro and his son’s Man I’s role as Rupert in The Harder They Come was revolutionary.
Though his role was not a major one, Ras Daniel Heartman’s performance carried significant cultural weight. As the reserved yet devoted companion to Jimmy Cliff’s character, Ivan, he presented a stark departure from the negative and often hostile portrayals of Rastafarians that were common at the time. The film’s widespread success, driven by its reggae soundtrack and gritty depiction of Jamaican society, played a crucial role in changing perceptions. Released at a pivotal moment when reggae and Rastafari were gaining global recognition, it positioned Heartman as one of the first Rastafarians to be visibly represented in international cinema.
Heartman’s Legacy
In 1988, Heartman left Jamaica for Tanzania, embracing the Pan-Africanist vision of repatriation that was central to the Rastafari movement. He passed away in 1990 at just 47 years old.
Though he was never fully embraced by Jamaica’s art establishment in his lifetime, his influence endures. His work continues to inspire, his images remain some of the most powerful representations of Rastafari, and his role in The Harder They Come helped bring Jamaican culture to the world.
Ras Daniel Heartman was not just an artist or actor—he was a revolutionary storyteller, capturing the soul of a movement through his pencil and his presence. As we honour him this Black History Month, it is our duty to not only celebrate his contributions but to also ensure that his name, his art, and his impact are preserved for generations to come.
Photos and information for this article was sourced from videos, articles and from the Ras Daniel Heartman official website.