Carnival and the Arts

Through the development of Carnival, art forms such as the mas, calypso and steelband have added to the eminence of the festival. However, it is the creation and depiction of the mas that has through time been the hub of the festival displaying multiple artistic sources. Such sources include the ethnical influences, the growth of craftsmanship in costume design, use of motion, symbols, motifs and the act of pantomime. The making and portrayal of the …

…the mas pays particular attention to influences such as culture, physical surroundings and the thinking of the people. The portrayal of the mas is dependent on the use of motion and where possible the act of pantomime. The masquerader’s main intention is to become one with the mas, move, form and shape the mas according to his interpretation. The arts of Carnival thus create a beauty that is reflective of the people of Trinidad.