MAS’: From Process to Procession, curated by Claire Tancons, captures the creation process of the contemporary Caribbean Carnival from initial drawings to final street processions. Mas’, short for masquerade, is synonymous with Carnival, and is a common name for the living art
that is central to the annual festivities in Trinidad. Carnival traditions from other countries are also presented, including the Dominican Republic and Curaçao, through drawing, installation, performance and film. Today, Carnival has evolved into an art form that bridges folk traditions with multimedia art to become a dynamic interdisciplinary art experience. MAS’ seeks to challenge traditional modes of artistic representation and curatorial presentation, and in doing so, unveil Carnival, with its formal innovations, satirical political appraisals, and inherently public nature, as one of the most complete yet under recognized contemporary art forms.
Artists Include
Laura Anderson Barbata, Mexico/USA
Nicolás Dumit Estévez, Domincan Republic/USA
Stefan Falke, Germany/USA
Marlon Griffith, Trinidad
Karyn Olivier, Trinidad/USA
Superior Concept Monsters / (Alex Kahn and Sophie Michahelles), USA
Caecilia Tripp, Germany/France
Public Programs
Panel Discussion
Thursday, September 20, 7pm
BRIC Rotunda Gallery
A dynamic group of artists, musicians and Carnival experts will come together to discuss the history of Mas’ in Trinidad, current Carnival traditions and why Mas’ is an energetic and valuable art form.Caribbean Carnival as Art Practice
September 12 - October 20, 2007
Opening Reception: Wednesday, September 12, 7 to 9pm