Launch Party: Jacksonville Carnival

by Weldon Ryan

It was the night of June 10th in the city of Jacksonville on the outskirts of the Jaguars stadium not far from the usual site of the Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival. I thought I was in the wrong place for a moment as I drove up to the location. But comfirmation came from the sounds of Caribbean music. Soca music pumped out of a the doors of a building which appeared to be the headquarters of a small business.

Riaz Hamid, Carol Grant, Jennia White, Debbie Sutton, and Theo Jack, Jr.

Not having spoken with Theo about the launch party until a couple of days before I didn’t know what to expect. Having attended last years band launch I expected the same setup. This was certainly a different location. As I entered the entry way I was greeted by Riaz and then Theo. President and founder of COOJI, Theo Jack, Jr. is the Founder/Chairman of The Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival. The Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing awareness, understanding, open dialogue, and appreciation of Caribbean people and our culture on the First Coast.  

I met these brothens a few year ago as Richlin and I were introduced to them by Guenet and Sam Roberts, the Organizers of the Orlando Carnival Downtown during OCD. Since then they have been great supporters of “The Art of Carnival" and the blog. Jacksonville Carnival,began in 2005. It is a smaller carnival than Orlando and although this is the case my feelings about COOJI is definitely great. Though it is smaller than the major Floridian carnival, it is a special family in the heart of Florida’s largest city. It’s popularity is rising as Mas Bands come from Atlanta, The Virgin Islands, Orlando and other places associate with the Caribbean community. Caribbeans are a small number of the immigration population in Jacksonville, the Caribbean community does what they do to keep Caribbean Culture going. It is taking off as the City of Jacksonville has also embraced the festival. COOJI sponsors many event throughout the year in order to have the Jacksonville Caribbean Carnival.

As the launch event kicked off the fun lovin Caribbeans danced and enjoyed the Soca spun by a scorcher of a groove jockey. The food on the grill was also making my mouth water. The site was eclectic and perfect for a shoot with an urban like fencing filled with grafitti art, party, string lights and other funky items that made for artsy backdrop for photos. But for whatever reason I was out of synch. I can’t remember ever having a dayor night that my flash would fall off my canon during a shoot. Great looking people to photograph leading up to the costume fashion show and I was fumbling with my camera. I was probably jinked with some obeah from someone that didn’t want a picture taken. But all in all I held it together. I did enjoy the costumes and the models.


All I can say is I wait with anticipation of seein these costumes on a hot Caribbean bod chippin down the Jacksonville avenue on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 12 noon. Bring your folding chairs and a clean palette for the taste of caribbean food and music. And don’t forget the events leading up to the Carnival. If anyone is interested in joining a Mas Band or to “Play Mas” go to the Jacksonville Carnival website for further detail which is placed at the bottom of this blog.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jacksonville-caribbean-carnival-tickets-520398484877

for more information goto: https://jacksonvillecarnival.com/

Back in Time Lime: Celebrates David Rudder

by Weldon Ryan

Looking up at the modern architecture of the Dr. Philips Performing art center in the heart of Orlando made me wonder what the evening would be like.  Orlando Carnival Downtown 2023 has so far done fantastic selecting this as a venue for it’s weekend Carnival ‘23 launch after J’ouvert. Another phenomenal job was selecting the Headliner of the evening. I was already impressed. The brightness of the sun was casting its rays steadfast on my forehead somewhat like a spotlight on an egg in a dark room. It was so intense I felt I was being cooked.  What a contrast from this morning of J’ouvert which I didn’t attend.  

So many years removed from my Caribbean homeland, my love for Calypso music and the songs that still resonate in my head still ring every time I daydream.  Calypso’s songs from Super Blue, The Mighty Sparrow and Calypso Rose puts me in harmony with present my state.  I daydream and think back to the tropical vegetation and the warmth of the Trinidad sun.

In contrast, my New York City experience brings memories of cold summer days and wishes of warm Caribbean nights. What a treat to be at Orlando Carnival listening to old school Calypso liming back in time.  The events of Saturday was so chill.  Everyone eased onto their clothe chairs with anticipation of the featured artist, David Michael Rudder.

David Rudder is a Calypsonian with the blood of Trinidad and Tobago running through his vein.  His musical genius extends for decades with songs pleasing our ears since the 80’s.  His love for his homeland and his people resonates through his lyrics with songs like ”Dus in De Air” and “The Hammer”, “Calypso Music”. One  particular song says it all. “Trini to De Bone” 2003 is tthat song.

I don’t know how he still has a positive outlook in life. He has such positive lyrics. Having suffered Polio, he has endured much though it seems his career was so smooth. I woudn’t know as I see from the outside. Polio would weaken the hearts of many.  But the strong fight the odds. Recently being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, his will to perform for Orlando Carnival Downtown 2023 Back in Time Lime, OCD’s version of Dimanche Gras, bestows love once more for the love of Calypso, TnT, the Caribbean community and Orlando.

It was epic and a special night!

Further information for feature events goto: https://orlandocarnivaldowntown.com/

Hard Fete: Orlando CarnivalDowntown 2023

by Weldon Ryan

Fetahs came out to fete Orlando Carnival Downtown 2023(OCD) weekend with some fire bringing the heat on the streets of Orlando Memorial Day Weekend! Carnival on the runway kicked it off with some steam coming out the doors at the Citrus Bowl percolating at a high temp. First off the media was introduced to this year’s Master Mas Playahs from the Road Ready Carnival Reality show. This bunch of young and personable feters displayed their exuberance and charm as they unboxed their Unruly Mas Band Costumes for this OCD Carnival weekend. My fellow media was all over them limiting my elbow room so I went on a more tangent approach to capture some shots hoping for a couple of good ones. My shot ratio is bout 3 to 1 on a good day.

Guenet Gittens-Roberts, Publisher of Caribbean Passport and CEO GGR Marketing along with Sam Roberts are the key organizers, planners and promoters of Orlando Carnival Downtown. Since they have had the Carnival their vision of Carnival in Orlando has been spectacular and has paid off with Carnival on the runway, Lime in Time( OCD’s version of Demarche. Two of The Art of Carnival’s biggest supporters, they have us display our works at the events helping us help the Caribbean diaspora deepen their appreciation for this aspect of Caribbean art. We love the music, performers, the food and the culture of carnival. But for whatever reason painters, and sculptures are not really in the mix. Aside from the costumes designers who offer fantastic creativity, Caribbean people love the vernacular. My works would be pale if it wasn’t for their concepts to creations every year. Carnival is a visual smorgasbord of delight which stimulates the mind especially when the costumes adorn the mas players whether thick, thin, small or chuck, dark or light.

The Art of Carnival involvement of ramped up this year with works being display at multifil events with the exception of J’ouvert. We can obviously imagine why. Noticing the musical line-up a couple of months before I thought of doing a painting of the two special performers of the headliners. It turns out that Fay Ann Lyons and Bungi Garlin are two of our favorite Soca stars. The energy these two and their music created in our car ride to NY in 2015 in particular was immeasurable that trip leading up to Labor day in NY. “Our time” created energy for the whole trip to and fro. That infused my family crew to cover the carnivals. We haven’t looked back since. I had pictures of Fay Ann and Bungi from the performance a year before that they rocked. I was planning doing a series of Soca performers. My line up for that is Calypso Rose and a few others. But I wanted to work with the shots of Bungi and Fay Ann first.

Miami Carnival 2022: RAIN D'OH STOP MAS

by Weldon Ryan

What a fine day for Mas. No matter the weather we’re going to chip our way to the stage and enjoy the fete! What Richlin and I did was to make sure we arrived in time to get to the beginning of the Carnival to get our photo content right. While we were there, we ran into Florida Senate Democratic candidate Val Demings’s campaign manager . How could we miss her standing by the Demings bus wrapped in amazing campaign photos. We were excited by the prospect of getting some pictures of Val Demings. She is the Grand Marshal this year.

Senate candidate Val Demings

Orlando’s own! Val Demings is running for U.S. Senate and she’s representing!

As Grand Marshal she brightened up the day with this stunning blue and white palm leaf dress and those dimples that make you melt. Val Demings is counting on us to get out and vote!

photo credit:Richlin Burnett-Ryan

As the parade started our Grand Marshal drove past in her convertible looking elated to be among fun loving people that truly support her candidacy. Dressed in a blue and white Palm print dress sitting next to her husband, Orange County Mayor Demings, atop a red mustang convertible alongside her husband Jerry Demings, the Orange County Mayor , she waved and is so committed to her campaign.

photo credit:Richlin Burnett-Ryan


Representative of the House of Representatives and Chief of the Orlando Police Department, she is the first female chief, capping a 27-year career with the department. Lets not forget that awesome Val Demings Custom Bus.

photo credit:Richlin Burnett-Ryan

Soon came a truck of mas players representing St. Thomas. But there was a lag so we decided to proceed noticing that the next precession was slow in approaching. A deluge of rain came pouring down. As predicted there would be 50 percent of rain throughout the day. Rain d'oh stop the fete but it does cause fret from any photographers that’s out shooting the event.

Luckily we had our rain gear including plastic camera bags to protect our cameras. But the issue was shooting as it rained. The rain fell hard and steady with wind which made adjusting our settings very difficult to get our job done.

Regardless of the rain nothing stops the fete. Our players didn’t mind the rainfall one bit. I saw people carrying on as if the rain was icing on a cake or the glaze on a donut. Rain added to the fun. The amount of rain made puddles and streams of water everywhere. But they threaded through. Didn’t mind the wet feathers. Never mind the cost of these fantastic front line costumes. They pranced on.

Finally the rain passed. The fete moved on. The rain ceased but the drinks kept pouring. One of the most amazing thing about our Caribbean People, fire water and a jump up is all we need to be content at carnival. Fun was the main priority as well and getting to the stage. Unfortunately for Richlin and I we were spent at this point in the day. We headed back to home base and vegged in the car for a little bit getting our equipment dry and collecting ourselves. We ran into Sam and Guenet Roberts, the organizers of Orlando’s Carnival and editors of Caribbean American Passport Magazine (www.caribbeanamericanpassport.com) and GGR Marketing and PR. Another thing about Caribbean people, we take care of our own. The first thing that came out of Guenet’s mouth was “You’ll ate?”. They take care of us.

Though in my tired state I ran back out to get some shots at the stage. Hobbling across the field I managed to perch myself along the side of the stage facing the Judges. In June I when to the SFCBLA to shoot the Mas Band launch. SFCBLA exists to promote and develop the diverse cultural art forms of Caribbean Carnival and Masque Sfcbla.org. Almost all of the bands were there. I got a glimpse of some phenomenal creations. I wanted to follow through with catching all of the bands to match my shoot photographs. With the rain delay the Carnival was running late. My favorites are always Ti Chapo, GenX, K-Paya …Oh hell! They are all my favorites. I saw the tail end of K-Paya as I walked. I snapped a few shoots but then realized it was time for the concert. We needed some shots of the performers. But that was it. Doing Jouvert on Saturday and then today? I caved in so we left early. As I suggested this Richlin looked at me like as if I was going mad. Never before had we done that. Rounding 9pm we were both spent by now. We came out at about 9am. Age has its dilemma. I was too gone to recoup. It was quite a long day. We missed stellar performances. But at least we got shots of the next U.S. Senator representing the state of Florida, Val Demings, and got some shots of some great costumes in our effort to document this years incredible Carnival.

Photo credits: Team Ryan at Art of Carnival for putting up with the rough weather.

Will you be selected for a Weldon Ryan Art of Carnival painting?

calypsofineart.com

Brilliance

by Weldon Ryan

After a Covid19 hiatus in 2020 Miami Carnival is back! Just about every Caribbean Carnival and Festivals have been cancelled due to Covid19 concerns. The West Indian community in South Florida could not live another year without having a Carnival. Miami Broward Carnival had to see how one of the major carnivals could happen. Using the CDC guidelines and seeing other large crowd management events dealing with tampering down the spread of Covid19 they camme up with a plan, No Mask No Mas. I thought this was brilliant! We West Indians needed ah fete! Plus, in my opinion, Miami Carnival decided that with the spread of Covid they would also encourage our Caribbean People to be proactive in helping to stop the virus from spreading. With imposing a policy of testing and rapid tests this would help everyone enjoy the fete without the worry of attending a super spreader event. Just like a hungry man, every Mas player and band came to the table with a ferocious appetite.

Throughout the Carnival the air of sorrow wafted through the event as our thoughts of Miya Marcano, a delicate flower of South Florida and Wassi Ones mas band family,were high. During the concern which followed the parade of bands hammered down the phrase ”No means no”. Sad that someone so involve in the culture is taken from this loving community not to ever meet her full potential. She will forever be in our thoughts.

My family and crew, Richlin, Xavier, Riva and Savannah were drained this year with all kinds of life’s events. So we were somewhat out of sorts. Never the less we came with art for the visitors tent as well as art for the media tent. The reception of my paintings was greatly appreciated by the attendees as the past thru. Great thanks to Yvette Harris who appreciate and understand why two dimensional art is also as important to Caribbean Culture as the music, food and fashion. The mission of Art of Carnival is to introduce paintings, sculpture and all of the visual arts as an important and relevent part of Caribbean Lifestyle. We encourage Caribbeans to buy original art and value our artists with this type of support helping Caribbean artists sustain in order for them to create. Enjoy the photos in this blog and look forward to some awesome works coming from this outing. By the way I give thanks to my family for enduring the physical strains of working this mission with me. Special thanks to my special partner and wife,Richlin, for being the temperate voice for “The Art of Carnival”.

CARNIVAL IS A RITUAL

Poetry written by Winston D. Andrews, Courtesy of Winston D.Andrews

            They came from all over just as they did last year and for so many years before, to this

            meeting place, to indulge in this ritual that is Carnival.

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            Their behavior was trancelike as though possessed, they gathered at ports of departure,

            each one determined that nothing could stop them from worshipping their God,

            King Carnival.

            Their transit to the venues of worship was tense with anticipation as they were moved

            by the memory of last year's ritual.

            Their arrival was met by fellow worshippers, greetings were exchanged, commitments

            were made, the God must be served with more splendor and glory than was last year.

            Food of the God was offered nightly at places called Calypso Tents; The food, the music,

            the rhythm, Calypso! Food of the God :– The sounds that bellow from the hilltops from

            ritualistic nooks and crannies called Pan Yards; Food of the God:- the Fetes, the Panorama,

            exciting, captivating; Food of the God :– Stimulating, appetizing, preparing for the feast

            of feasts, God King Carnival.

 

            Jouvert is the offering a million worshippers make.

            Ah! The God is pleased because this offering is bigger and better than was last year.

 

            God King Carnival opens his arms and embraces his subjects. “Let the Ritual begin”.

            Carnival is alive.

            Oh! Oh! A! A! Mama Yo! It's Carnival.

            “Tambu Bambu”, it's Carnival.

            “Jab Molassi”, it's Carnival.

            A million hearts in majestic unison; “Oh God Carnival”

            A million faces in transfigurated countenances of ecstacy

            “Don't stop the Carnival”.

             And so for forty-four hours two sister islands in the sun, pulsate, vibrate;

            rhythmic voices chanting; rhythmic bodies swaying, gyrating; shango drums,

            steel drums bellowing; the children, the fathers and the mothers jumping, shouting;

            color, every color mixing, blending; tempo hot; laughter loud; so much love,

            so much loving.

            Somebody shouts “Play Mas!”.

            The eyes of night smile with romance.

            The sound of music in the moonlight,

            sometimes soothing, sometimes exciting.

            Vows made.

            Some betrayed.

            God King Carnival reigns.

             The bowels of King Carnival is filled and so sleep calls, but the ritual must be

            drained to the very end.

            It's Las' Lap.

        New acquaintances tightly embrace,

            Music is softer, voices whisper,

            Tired feet scuffle, over each other they stumble,

            A guitar pan strums,

            A lone tenor responds,

            A base pan dies,

            Sleep has taken it's life.

            A lover whispers “Oh God, I'm tired”

            Collapses, energy expires.

            It's midnight.

            And there is the sound of silence.

            As God King Carnival sleeps.

THE RITUAL IS OVER!

Island Space Caribbean Museum

by Weldon Ryan

Island Space Caribbean Museum first came into our scope as Richlin spoke with Andrew Martineau. Andrew is co-founder and Chief curator of Art Ft.Lauderdale. Art Ft.Lauderdale (https://www.artftlauderdale.com/) . They host a 4-day curated Art Fair transports attendees on an artistic journey along the famed Intracoastal waterways every year in January. He mentioned that this museum is newly established; December 15, 2020, and it maybe a space to work with dealing with the Caribbean Diaspora. Low and behold, as we are always working on reaching out we contacted them in hopes of establishing a rapport. We spoke with David Muir, the president https://islandspacefl.org/team/david-i-muir/ with hopes of possibly showing “Art of Carnival” around the time of the Miami Broward Carnival.

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As always we try to coincide our show with the carnival event in close vicinity to open up the culture of Caribbean people and the collection of Caribbean art. Richlin obtained information about what their needs are. She found that their needs are obtaining relevant Caribbean items pertaining to historical artifacts, photos and memorabilia to fill their space.

Not to say that their collection so isn’t great. They have some outstanding items which are stellar. I was made aware of head wraps they displayed in the museum with hidden massages of social status and other information of disposition. This was fascinating to me that what seemed like simple items secretly communicated messages in this manner.

Also displayed were carnival costumes of magnificence.

Establishing a museum is tough business. Finding a space was among their first priority and being that this was the case they obtained a space in 8000 W Broward Blvd #422, Plantation Florida. But most important to establishing an epic museum space and organization of enormous importance is having the funding.

We were invited to put some of my work up in the gallery space and we were happy to say yes.

Here is a link, https://youtu.be/bs5Ol1PNhXU and Join us on Sunday June 6 for Magic at the Museum, our Global Launch & Fundraiser https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs5Ol1PNhXU Support the Island SPACE Caribbean and DONATE TODAY:

Miami Carnival 2019 - Parade of Bands

by Weldon Ryan

A spectacular-line up of costumes mezmorized the eyes. The mas players and revelers crowded the parade path enjoying refreshments and hydrated themselves probable with water but mostly with rum fueling the passion of the band. At times I was enveloped by these costumed mas of feathered backpacks with soca vibrating from the big trucks. I must have been crazy thinking I can capture images in this mas of flesh and feathers.

This mas of riotus revelers consumed with dance and frolly as the sundrenched day went on. You can imagine hundreds of bands members in bands totaling 25 plus. The amount of images to shoot was enormous . So we managed as best as we could to get the images that stood out to my team. If we stayed till all 25 bands chipped to the stage we’d be at the carnival way late. Coming out early limited our shoot time. We had to take a pause to eat and hydrate cause it was exhausting. Thank goodness for some of the bands giving the crew water.

As the day gave way to the sunset fatigue and the rum stepped in. At that point it was time for my team and I to stumble back to the Miami Carnival visitor center and pack up. We did get to some of the performances on stage but we were through. We couldn;t even stand.

But we couldn’t miss performances from Kes The Band, Patrice Roberts, Shurwayne Winchester, Teddyson John, Dil E Nadan, King Bubba, Peter Ram, Stiffy, Ricardo Drue, Trinidad &Tobago Prison Band, P Goodz, Prime Ethic, Soca Empress J, Scrappy, Rudy Live, Mr. Pearly, Julien Believe, Kiprich, Tara Lynne, Sweet Shells, Imma Haitian 257. We did the best we could. Next year we’re gonna need 2 shifts to get everything. Plus we’re gonna need enough flash for the night time .

Rich Caribbean Arts, Culture and Heritage Take Center Stage For The 35th annual Miami Carnival

Rich Caribbean Arts, Culture and Heritage Take Center Stage For The 35th annual Miami Carnival celebrations that culminate on Sunday, October 13, 2019, at Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds Miami Carnival provides a taste of the diverse and unique flavors of Caribbean culture to all those who attend.

-Presented by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau #FoundinMiami

-Celebrating Sweet Riddim & Culture

-Caribbean Airlines- Official Airline Of Miami Carnival

-Junior Carnival Presented by TD Bank Set to Celebrate and Pass On Culture To Young People

-Trinidad Massy All Stars Steel Orchestra Set to Perform At Panorama

-Appearances by T&T's Gypsy & Poser at Miami Carnival Panorama and Carnival Sunday

-Official Miami Carnival J'Ouvert Presented by MoneyGram

-Over 15,000 Masqueraders participating at the Miami Carnival Parade of Bands

-Concert With Top Heavyweight Soca Artists

-Creative artisans and artists set to showcase at the Miami Carnival Parade of Bands

-Three Free Park and Ride Locations

-One Carnival, One Location, One Movement

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Miami, FL- (September 23, 2019) - On Sunday, October 13, 2019, the Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee will host the 35th annual Miami Carnival celebration at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds, from 11 am-11 pm. Named one of the Top 100 Events of South Florida by bizbash.com, Miami Carnival continues its long-standing tradition of providing a kaleidoscope of Caribbean cultures under one umbrella. The events also consists of a thoughtfully curated celebration of the Caribbean through pageantry, music, food, arts & crafts, and cultural experiences. Miami Carnival Parade of Bands features the colorful display of costumes of over 15,000 masqueraders and revelers parading as they capture the spirit, passion, and the essence of Caribbean culture. The mega concert, scheduled on the same day, will showcase the infectious vibes and energy of some of the top 35 Soca music ambassadors. Sponsors for the 2019 Miami Carnival include: Presenting sponsors - The Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and Caribbean Airlines; MoneyGram, Yellow Cab Broward and is produced with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.

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"For over 35 years, Miami Carnival has endeavored to be the nucleus of Caribbean culture during every Columbus Day weekend on South Florida. It is critical for the sustainability of the Carnival that all our community stakeholders support the sanctioned main events of the Carnival calendar, including our Junior Carnival, Panorama, Jouvert and Parade of the Bands. These key Miami Carnival events created a platform of cultural tourism for other fetes and themed parties to exist for the catering public and should not conflict, especially with the main day of our Parade of the Bands. All community members are encouraged to support the Carnival's core programming in every way possible," states Joan Hinkson, Board Chair, Miami Broward One Carnival Host Committee.

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The Miami Carnival vibes start with the Miami Carnival Junior Carnival on Saturday, October 5, 2019. This traditional event cultivates a platform that supports the passing of the baton of the culture of Carnival to the young people. On Friday, October 11, the annual Miami Carnival Panorama brings the rhythms of sweet Steelpan music competition between five competing bands. A highly anticipated performance by the Trinidad Massy All Stars Steel Orchestra, and appearances by Gypsy & Poser are some of the most talked-about among pan aficionados. On Saturday, October 12, the Miami Carnival Official J'Ouvert is also a very colorful event where paint and powder contribute color to the costumes. The culmination of Miami Carnival takes place on Sunday, October 13, at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds from 11 am-11 pm. The parade kicks off at Noon, and the mega Soca concert starts at 3 pm.

Soca Concert Lineup

Featuring- Kes the Band (Trinidad), Dil-E-Nadan Band (Trinidad), Farmer Nappy (Trinidad), Nailah Blackman (Trinidad), Nadia Batson (Trinidad), Mr Killa (Grenada), Julien Believe (Bahamas), Swappi (Trinidad), Stitchie(Guyana), 5 Star Akil (Trinidad), Teddyson John (St. Lucia), Kiprich (Jamaica), King Bubba (Barbados), Mikaben (Haiti), Stacious (Jamaica), Veekash Sahadeo (Trinidad), Christy Delves (Grenada), Ezzy Rattigan (Antigua), Claudette Peters (Antigua), Wendi (Bahamas ), Dennis Roberts (Antigua), Trevon Vibez (Barbados) and more!

Hosted by: MC Wassy, DJ Sue, DLife

Music powered by- DJ Dorenzo (Trinidad), DJ Mekka Rose (Barbados), DJ Coulgi (Haiti), DJ Fly Guy (Guyana), DJ Kito (Trinidad)

Visit www.miamicarnival.org for additional information and to purchase your tickets.

Follow on Social Media: @miabrocarnival -Twitter and IG

Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/MiamiBrowardOneCarnival/

Miami Carnival official Media Network partner is Trinidad & Tobago Television, Ltd. (TTT)

To Schedule Interviews or apply for media credentials or more information please contact:

Yvette N. Harris at info@harrispublicrelations.com or call 786.897.8854.

Sunday Night Dimanche Gras All White Affair featuring Calypso Rose, GBM Nutron, Lavaman

by Weldon Ryan

The historical characters of Trinidad Carnival with the king and queen march at Sunday Night Dimanche Gras was magnificent! The night featured the legendary Calypsonian and trail blazer Calypso Rose. I can leave it right there cause she wrote the book on being a Calypsonian. What makes her story even more special is that she kicked down the door and broke the ceiling on being female in the all male world of the Calypsian tradition. She started writing songs at the age of 15 and she’s been a force performing ever since.

I remember in the seventies singing “Fire fire in me wire wire” as my siblings and I pranced around our Faile street apartment in the Bronx. My mom had albums from all the main Calypsians. Calypso Rose was among them sporting her hot pants and boots on the lp cover. She’s been a main staple of my music carousel for as long as I can remember. Calypso has come a long way since the 70’s. A lot of the trailblazers are being forgotton and their glossory of topics and storylines have changed to a more topical expression of todays lifestyles. The double entendre’s and the stories told have been converted to streamlined hooks and energetic caribbean grooves. That doesn’t change the foundation that has been laid. I make it a point to play old school calypso everytime I have the opportunity and when I have my children cornered so they know all about their Caribbean culture and the genius of our Calypsonians. Although Soca is the now, our greots of our culture are the mothers and fathers of a musical genre that’s making a big splash. It has finally gone mainstream as a musical genre on the music charts alongside Reggae. I cannot dismiss the rest of the musical lineup. They were fantastic as well with the music of the incomparable GBM Nutron and Lavaman entertaining the crowd. Most important to me was seeing Calypso Rose. She took me back to Trinidad.

photo credit to Riva Ryan, Xavier Ryan, Richlin Ryan.

Miami Carnival Soiree: As Miami Launches Year 35

by Weldon Ryan

We were invited to display some of my carnival paintings in the Miami Carnival Soiree by Yvette N. Harris of Harris Public Relations on Saturday July 20th. This event was in celebration of the opening of the 35th annual Miami Carnival for 2019. My paintings added carnival ambiance to this already fabulous venue. No doubt I was very happy to be at this event cause Miami Carnival sponsors and the Miami Carnival committee was to be present.

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“Entwined”

Our 4th annual Art of Carnival Painting select for 2019.

We usually do not take originals out but we rented the car to fit my large 4x4 and 4x3 paintings and finalized the planning of getting us to what was one hell of an event. The venue was a spot used by professional photographers for photoshoots. It was picturest. We were also present during D-Junction as they did their shoot for this years carnival costumes they’d created. Dressed up for the shoot were some long legged Caribbean beauties who later modeled for the crowd. Talk about peltin bumpers.

 

for information about Miami Carnival go to https://miamicarnival.org/ or see below.

Family-ly-ly-ly-ly in Jacksonville, Fl.

by Weldon Ryan

It was a hot August day and despite the heat, carnivalist came out from all of Florida as well as elsewhere to enjoy this Jacksonville fete. Richlin and I got up early to come out and try something new with our tent set up. Since Richlin got into jewelry design she incorporated her jewelry with the art display this year (https://www.richlinryan.com/richlin-jewelry).

The vendors at the event came well equiped to satisfy everyones taste buds for Caribbean delights and flags, leather goods along with other souvenirs. As you had already suspected, the cold drinks hit the spot for many.

As I hobbled to the parade route I caught up with some photographers but I soon realized how hard that was so I eased myself to a less stress photo opportunity waiting for them to chip to my location on the route. There wasn’t as many Mas bands as with the last two years. But inspite of this the parade of players made much noise and fevour as they got in order for the judges.

here is more.

The venue performers featured as headliner Patrice Roberts but the old school Soca Manarch, Preacher, made his appearance. Preacher reminded us of what made Soca great. He moved the group with all time great “Jump up and Wave” and other famous soca hits that’s scorched in our memories. I really enjoyed all of the performers as we’re all family. What always makes a great party is audience participation and like last year with SuperBlue, Patrice made things exciting. She closed out the event with a bang as the drizzle turned to a rain. My guess is that mother nature had to get into the act too!

I really enjoy Jacksonville Carnival. Every year they put on great musicians and although it’s small compared to Miami, New York and even Orlando, there is a sense of family. That feeling in itself brings a feeling of comfort and I look forward to the growth and the excitement it brings to North Florida every year. Big Ups to COOJI!

Unity at Orlando Downtown Carnival 2019

by Weldon Ryan

Carnivalist came out in droves to see the Mas Players and to enjoy a day of soca music along with West Indian delicacies. The heat was intense but so was the bands. The key emphasis on this Memorial day however was Unity! Last year there was two Orlando Carnivals. GGR Marketing and PR made this event a phenominal success uniting the two Caribbean factions. From my vantage the park was full and after the Carnival Mas parade there was a massive crowd enjoying not one but two of the performance stages. The food lines were long and everyone wanted to emerce themselves with caribbean goodies since the parade had ended. I enjoyed the musical lineup especially with the headliner being Bunji Garland. To cap the night Faye Ann Lyons made her cameo teaming with her hubbie making there performance another smash as my night cap. I left exhausted but very very satisfied.

 

Here is some more.

Miami Carnival 2018

by Weldon Ryan

The Miami Carnival came around quickly this year. I guess that was because I was so busy trying to do some change up in my style of work. Aside from that I also had to change my work area to permit a level on comfort dealing with the Florida heat especially since I’ve been working in my garage. One thing I’ve discovered since last year. Preparation is important. Last year I had to rap up early and didn’t stay the entire Carnival Festival because of a bout with heat exhaustion. This year I decided that the best coarse of action was to go the Air B&B way. Richlin, the kids and I started months early renting a space which made the rental much cheaper and affordable. We got there the day day before, although we missed the Jouvert. We took our time and got to the media tent to pick up our credentials and off we were.

With a large contingency of Mas bands The Art of Carnival had a tremendous amount of work to do to capture the essence of Miami/Broward Carnival. Our biggest task was to snap the GenX Massive. They were number 7 on the line-up and I thought heat would be a factor like last year. Fact is the weather was great. Whether it was because of the storm churning in the gulf of because of the change of season I was happy.

Preparation came apparent to the Miami Carnival Committee as well. There seemed to be some changes to media procedures as well as the parade route and the stage. All in all it was for the better.

The bands we astounding. Creativity of the costumes had us in awe. If I had to choose which Mas band was the most spectacular I couldn’t. I favor GenX the most because it seems like I paint there Mas player the most. But Ramajay, DJunction and One Island also stood out. As and artist and photographer I also believe that the engagement of the players from the bands cloud my judgement in favor. This year I ran in to some faces I have envisioned in paintings and have selected them. The picture files are out but not transferred to the canvas. I also had the pleasure of running into an acquaintance from our first Art of Carnival NYC which was at Clover Fine Art Gallery on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.

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I can tell you that I love shooting Miami Carnival. Special thanks to my family crew( Richlin,Savannah and Riva) who took great shots in my endeavor to create art. Enjoy the selection of pictures selected for you to view.

Visit my website www.weldonryancarnivalpix.shootproof.com for picture downloads. Please ignore the watermarks on the pictures. It won’t be there on your downloads. Your first image is complementary. Each additional helps to pay for my sites. Instagram @weldony8903

Thanks!

MiamiBroward Carnival

Celebrate 34 years of Miami Carnival and experience the vibrancy of Caribbean culture, creative self-expression, entrepreneurialism

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The annual Caribbean Carnival season culminates with one of the largest cultural spectacles in North America, on Sunday, October 7th from 11am-11pm at the Miami-Dade County Fairgrounds (10901 SW 24th St, Miami, FL 33165). Miami Carnival, celebrating 34 years, continues to be a feather in the cultural diversity cap of Miami and the South Florida region. The Miami Carnival Parade of Bands and Concert is presented by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB). The festival is also made possible with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. Tickets can be purchased at www.miamibrowardcarnival.com. Over 17 masquerade bands will compete for prizes, pageantry and bragging rights. 



“After 34 years, Miami Carnival is an institutional mainstay of Miami’s cultural tourism economy. With the generations of persons of Caribbean descent from the region and other corners of America who have made Miami home, their music, culture, and artistic energy are helping to book out the availability of hotel rooms, special event venues, rent-a-cars, and shopping centers over the Columbus Day Weekend.  This event transforms Miami into an economically vibrant culture wonderland”, states Marlon Hill, attorney for Miami Carnival.

Fete on The Parkway

by Weldon Ryan

As a famous Tobago Calypsonian had sung… “Fire fire in meh wire Papa” ay ya yeye it was hot on the parkway! Not only was it hot with the temperature of the day, the heat was high with the degree of sexy hot costumes. From Dingolay to Ramajay every one looked great. The major concern at this years carnival was that it wouldn’t run as smooth because of Mr.Howard’s passing. That fear was lifted by the precision of the mas bands moving at a fast pace to fit every band in before the cut off period. This speed march made it a challenge for the media. But with the off the hook creativity this year there was much to marvel over.

WIADCA Junior Carnival:2018

by Weldon Ryan

It’s been a couple of years since I’ve shot the WIADCA Junior Carnival. So Saturday I convinced Richlin to join the team and work on the Junior Carnival shoot. We stayed for a short time cause of my knee dilemma. The parents were enthusiastic to bestow Caribbean culture upon their kids. Their children spent the energy marching with excitement and vigor. In this short time we shot over 2000 pictures which enables me the resource of great pictures for next years paintings.

Painting Mas 2018

by Weldon Ryan

For the last 3 years the Art Of Carnival Exhibit has exhibited in Brooklyn, New York as an additional feature to coincide with WIADCA and its Labor Day Carnival on Eastern Parkway. As an addition to the art, which is created from past West Indian Carnival events throughout the US, we provides a cultural connection with the communities that celebrate carnival with an artist talk from a historical perspective about carnival characters.

My perspective on Carnival is that of a two dimensional artist with an emphasis on documenting the Carnival through my paintings. This is different than the emphasis of a Soca Artist or a designer of costumes. Musical creations provide an acoustic rendition of art and as African Griots and the statements of the season are what the costume designers bring.

But I feel my emphasis brings the event of Carnival full circle through paint and canvas. Naturally one may argue that photographers document each event. The difference in my form of documenting employ an interpretation which cannot be mechanically created because of my humanistic interpretation. Once we exhibit Brooklyn and shoot the Labor Day Carnival our attention is directed to the Carnival in Miami broward which will take place October 7, 2018.(https://miamibrowardcarnival.com/).Then we prepare for the following year.




EVENT HORIZON:WEST INDIAN AMERICAN PARADE IN BROOKLYN

by Weldon Ryan

My Parents Four siblings and I came to the US from Trinidad and Tobago 50 years ago.  I was only six.  We settled in the Bronx on Faile Street near Simpson street with the IRT 2 &5.  I have vivid memories of the Bronx.  I also have held fond memories of Trinidad and my brief years spent in the Caribbean.  One of my most vivid memories was Jouvert and people drenched in black as JabJabs scarring us as we watched the procession of revelers.  That was it!  For a while I had no knowledge as to the history of Carnival or the activities surrounding it.  It was on occasion that magazines brought over from my Uncle Leslie I was able to get a glimpse of Trinidad Carnival.  Of course, certain songs of Calypsonians popped through my head and out my lips.  But it wasn't until moving to Brooklyn on Herkimer and Jordine Place that I got a good idea of what it is being from the Caribbean.  My mother's best friend who was Guyanese: god bless her soul, lived around the corner.  Boy did she throw good parties.  It wasn't just the parties that I remember but also the feeling of belonging to a culture.  Fortunately for my siblings and I my mothers friend had much older children and thus a more Caribbean vibe to flow.  Unfortunately we it was short lived and we moved back to the Bronx in my fifth year of public school. Thus, my longing for my Caribbean roots was placed purgatory for a long while. 

The pull for my cultures was too strong.  What I'm getting to is that the longing in my heart for a cultural reawakening led me to this moment in my life. I'm totally loving my Caribbean food, Caribbean music and most of all my Caribbean people with their own take of the world, their beauty and their pride.  I paint Carnival and the many diasporas of Caribbean people and I love it.