In my series of photographs documenting Carnival in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, I seek to unveil the multifaceted layers of contradiction and complexity inherent in this vibrant celebration. Beyond its colorful parades and lively festivities, Carnival serves as a powerful lens through which to examine the enduring legacy of colonialism and its present-day manifestations.
At first glance, Carnival exudes an air of joy and revelry, drawing spectators into a world of music, dance, and cultural expression. However, beneath the surface lies a profound narrative of struggle and resilience, echoing the historical wounds inflicted by centuries of colonial oppression. Through my lens, I capture the juxtaposition of celebration and introspection, inviting viewers to engage in a dialogue on the intricacies of colonial identity.
Amidst the pulsating rhythms of the Carnival, I document moments of quiet reflection and resistance, where echoes of the past reverberate through the streets. The costumes and performances become symbols of cultural resistance, reclaiming space and identity in the face of ongoing colonial legacies. Yet, intertwined with this defiance are remnants of colonial influence, manifested in societal structures and power dynamics that continue to shape the fabric of everyday life.
Through my photographs, I invite viewers to confront the paradoxes of a society caught between tradition and modernity, resilience and vulnerability. The Carnival becomes a site of contestation, where the past converges with the present, and the legacy of colonialism is laid bare for all to see. Ultimately, my aim is to spark a conversation that transcends the boundaries of time and place, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities that define our collective experience in the Virgin Islands and beyond.
Discovering what moves us 