Conceptual Materials Social Practice Artist
“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.
I recently completed this soft fiber sculpture inspired by my research into the history of St. Croix’ Old Time Christmas Festival masquerade costumes which were themed and handmade.
The Pitchy Patchy character is usually represented by a suit made of tattered, colorful pieces of cloth.
I’m here to admit something that some might consider a guilty pleasure, but honestly, I couldn’t care less because Pumpa’s “The A List” is a total vibe, and I’m ready to shout it from the rooftops!
It all started one night on the boardwalk in Christiansted harbor St. Croix. “The A List” was blasting from one of the bars and hit me like a ton of bricks. Before I knew it, I found myself succumbing to the irresistible urge to wind my waist and bend right ova, just like the song instructed. I must say, it was a transcendent moment – a blend of infectious beats and an undeniable call to dance that I couldn’t resist.
The catchy lyrics and the energetic rhythm of the song quickly turned “The A List” into an ear worm that refuses to leave my head. It’s the kind of track that plays on a loop in your mind, and honestly, I’m not complaining. I’ve fully embraced the obsession, and I’m not afraid to admit my name ends with an A, so… bend right ova.
And then came the music video – an absolute visual feast that took my fascination to a whole new level. The athleticism of the dancers leave me in awe. I have to give major props to these talented ladies mind-boggling moves. At my age, attempting to replicate most of these dance moves is a major a stretch, but who cares? The video is a celebration of movement, freedom, and pure joy, and I can’t help but be inspired to try.
Sure, I may catch some heat for publicly declaring my love for this song and video, but guess what? I don’t care. “The A List” has a magnetic pull, and I’m proudly surrendering to its rhythm. As St. Thomas Carnival season approaches, I can’t help but daydream about being in the midst of the festivities, fully equipped with my feather back pack and enthusiastic attempts to wind it up.
The local flora and fauna is showing up in my work… I am exited to see what this opens up for me. New New New…
I’m a fiber artist who processes repurposed materials. Now that I am on St Croix, I am itching to explore the abundance of natural fibers just outside my door, palms, coconut, vines, bamboo, to name a few. Last month, St. Georges Botanical Garden hosted three natural fiber workshops using materials sources from their garden. Naturally, I showed up ready to learn and experiment.
This is how it went
Rope making using invasive snake plants.
Paper making is sparking new ideas.
And I spent a morning palm weaving…
Ive been thinking incorporating these experiments into my practice and new ideas are percolating. Meanwhile, I am building a tool kit of garden sheers, gloves, buckets, and bins to process natural fibers at Sky Garden Retreat in St. Croix.
To say I’ve been grinding since the beginning of the new year is an understatement. Hustle harder vibes have me I’m feeling extra spicy and on edge.
Leaving the Calm app behind for beach breezes, the sound of the waves and the chirping birds as my morning wake up call in St. Croix is the restorative respite I need.
The colors of Sunrise and Sunset in St. Croix have inspired these new ropes
