The Whip

A young Jab Jab cracks his whip at the National #Stickfighting Finals at Skinner Park in San Fernando, #Trinidad. Jab Jab or Whipmen practice a form of martial art where participants duel using whips made from hemp or other similar fibers. In addition to the physical training, there is also a ritualistic spiritual dimension which includes fasting and use of certain "bush medicines" to help protect the practitioners. Like the Jab Molassie Blue Devils, the #carnival tradition of Jab Jab dates back to post emancipation colonial times. These traditions live on in village communities like Couva, Talparo and Point Fortin passing from one generation to the next.

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The Jab Molassie Devil Mas in #Trinidad dates back to colonial times and the emancipation of slaves on the island. Passing from parent to child, these traditions have been kept alive in the small village community of Paramin which is ground zero for the Blue Devils. While much of the mainstream carnival in #PortofSpain has evolved to the beads, bikinis and feathers type masquerade, this traditional carnival is more visceral and raw and holds greater historical context.

All Stars Sailor

An "Old time Sailor" masquerader rests before going on stage during the annual carnival celebrations. Port of Spain, Trinidad

Bacchanal

Models get into the festive spirit during a band launch weeks before the annual Carnival celebrations in Trinidad & Tobago

The Blue Devil and The Pitchfork

Trinidad, 2017

Jab Jab