Conceptual Materials Social Practice Artist
This soft fiber sculpture is inspired by my research into the traditional masquerade costumes of St. Croix’s Old Time Christmas Festival.
It represents “Pitchy Patchy,” a character known for wearing a suit of tattered, colorful fabric pieces. In the festival, Pitchy Patchy acts as an enforcer, maintaining order among the carnival masquerades and performers.
After The Dance is a vibrant homage to the spirit of Caribbean carnival festivities—a celebration of the transformative power of joy. This piece, crafted from wire, a beaded bib, chenille, ribbon, acrylic yarns, metallic rayon fabric, metallic yarn, and three-ply cotton rope, captures the kaleidoscope of color and movement that defines carnival.
The textures and materials intertwine to evoke the exuberance of masquerade costumes, the rhythm of soca and calypso, and the shimmer of sequins catching the sun.
Through this work, I reflect on the ephemeral yet profound nature of carnival. The piece is a snapshot of the moments “after the dance,” when the streets grow quieter but the energy of celebration lingers, echoing in our bodies and spirits.
After The Dance invites the viewer to celebrate the beauty of transformation, community, and the enduring cultural legacies carried forward through carnival—a vivid reminder that even in the aftermath, the spirit of the dance lives on.
Drawing upon the vibrant tapestry of St. Croix’s Old Time Christmas Festival and its rich tradition of masquerade, Pitchy Pathcy is a soft fiber sculpture crafted from upcycled Patagonia shorts shredded then wrapped in a melange of textures and hues.
Infused with the spirit of the Pitchy Patchy mas character, known for its tattered, multicolored attire, this piece intertwines 4-ply worsted wool, soft rainbow wool, and whimsical eyelash yarn. Adorned with a medley of wooden and metal beads, cowrie shells, and hair jewelry, it pays homage to the enigmatic enforcers who animate the carnival’s bustling energy.
Assembled with reverence, this soft sculpture bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the magic of masquerade.
“Through ‘Vestiges of Masquerade,’ I delve into the echoes left behind after the festivities have ended and the costumes have been put away. This work embodies artifacts, adornments, and symbolic imagery that resonate with the essence of a masquerade. This piece serves as a totem, evoking a profound sense of mystery, allure, and wistful remembrance, inviting viewers to explore the enchanting world of masquerades long after the masks have been removed.
Join me in my studio to wrap yarn onto cotton rope. Imbue your essence and becoming a part of the rope, as we discussed the trials and tribulations of our daily lives. Finding a common denominator amongst us all, HAIR.
JCAST DATES: Oct 5 and 6th, 12:00-3:00pm both days
LOCATION: Sky Garden Gallery, 150 Bay Street, PH9, 10th Floor Jersey City
A collection of works that evoke the theme Shadows and Reflections, either separately or combined in one composition.
JCAST DATES: Oct. 4, 5, and 6th.
OPENING RECEPTION: Friday October 4th
LOCATION: Six Columns Gallery: 672 Bergen Ave (bsmt) Jersey City
What is it about masks that intrigues us, delights us, terrifies us? What compels us to obscure our own visage and put on a new identity?
EXHIBITION DATES: October 1- November 3, 2019
OPENING RECEPTION: Tuesday October, 1 @7pm
LOCATION: LITM, 140 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ
