With just one day remaining to the grand Mashramani costume float parade, bands have continued the reveal of their inspired designs in stored for Thursday. Honest Illusions and the Ministry of Education both hosted the unveiling of their creative pieces at two separate events on Tuesday.
Honest Illusions returns to Mashramani for the fourth year with their recreation of Mardi Gras. The American band drew its inspiration from the French celebration, depicting the free spirited nature and endless possibilities that is associated with the festivity. The line of costumes was designed by Preston Paul and Stronjeh and is entitled Mardi Gras : The Spirit of Carnival.
The line features three focal pieces, each being a symbolic allusion to Mardi Gras. The center piece, Queen Du Mardi Gras, sets the tone for what is to follow with its bright golden royal appeal. The other two selections, Roman Lust and Venice, are less flamboyant but more attractive, playing with a mixture of colours. Despite the featured pieces, revelers with this band have the choice to combine an array of ideas to create their unique look, in keeping with the theme of freedom of expression.
The Ministry of Education on the other hand relied on a more local source of inspiration, reflecting the country’s various Go Green efforts in their Mashramani float. Guyana, an emerging green state, was the theme depicted with their designs that exhibited of the colourful aspects of life and nature (flora and fauna) which will inherently flourish with careful efforts to protect and preserve the environment. This band, both costumes and floats, was designed by the staff and students of the Burrowes School of Art. Volda Ramsammy, attached with the School of Arts, explained that this band was built from scratch. Even though the school did not initially offer costume designing as a course of study, they were tasked over the years with designing and building the Mashramani band for the then independent Ministry of Culture which now falls under the umbrella of Ministry of Education. The entire band is completely original, making use of creative skillsets such as crafting, spray painting and wire twisting.
Minister Nicolette Henry expressed her delight in the successful execution of the numerous Mashramani events thus far, which fell under the supervision of the Department of Culture. She explained that it has been a team effort and thanked her staff for their commitment despite the challenges that accompanied what may possibly be the Departments busiest period. The positive atmosphere and massive turn out to the previous events was commended by the Minister who is anticipating a greater participation, showcasing a true representation of the Guyanese culture come February, 23, Mashramani day.
