New Carnival has joined forces with an international costume designer to create a stunning ‘Spirit of the Isle’ costume.
The carnival arts organisation, based in Ryde, is collaborating with renowned costume designer Melissa Simon Hartman and Barbara Nyarko from Mas Africa.
The costume, inspired by the Isle of Wight's heritage, wildlife, and coastal landscape, will be showcased at the IW Mardi Gras on Saturday July 8
in Ryde.
New Carnival Director, Hannah Ray, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, saying:
"What a treat to be able to get all our talented carnival artists together for a special masterclass workshop.
"We have all been so inspired by Melissa and can't wait to showcase our work at the IW Mardi Gras."
The designer has worked with Notting Hill Carnival, she also works within theatre, TV, film, and within the music industry.
Her clients include Beyonce, Doja Cat, and The Royal Shakespeare Company.
Several artists from New Carnival and Ventnor Carnival Associations worked together to come up with ideas to visually represent the Island's environment, and rich artistic culture of festivals and carnivals.
Melissa ensured the costume represented the Island and people creating it.
The costume combines mini 3D textural pieces made by each individual participant to create a ‘maximalist’ style costume.
Two young people who applied through Ventnor Exchange’s Brave Island creative network, were given the opportunity to join the group and get a taste of carnival costume design.
One of those, Theodora Travers, said:
"It was amazing to see the process, how it all comes together, while Cara Goodrem was able to put her sewing skills to good use helping to create the bespoke robe for the wearer.
"The ‘Spirit of the Isle’ costume has a few finishing touches to be completed before it is showcased at the IW Mardi Gras in Ryde."
Mardi Gras will get underway from 3pm, starting at Simeon Recreational Ground in Ryde.
The full programme for the IW Mardi Gras can be found at this link.
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