A British artist has crafted life-size sculptures, all of which have been cast from members of the local community in Grenada.
The installation known as the Coral Carnival was created by Jason deCaires Taylor in collaboration with a team of local artists, drawing inspiration from the country’s vibrant annual carnival, Spicemas.
“The sculptural procession portrays a range of symbolic carnival characters, each one celebrating Grenada’s rich culture and history,” said the sculptor from Canterbury in Kent.
The sculptures provide a major upgrade to the Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park, which Mr. Taylor created back in 2006—the first of its kind in the world.
Every sculpture added to the park can be found at about 10 feet underwater (3-meters) making them easy to see by snorkelers.
The designs, adorned with jewels, sequins, and feathers, represent the first time paint has been used on underwater sculptures, but with materials friendly for the environment. Made from high-grade stainless steel and PH-neutral marine cement, they are installed in a way that ensured the local reef was not damaged by anchoring.
The bases of the sculptures even include holes and shelters designed for marine life, such as octopus and lobsters, to inhabit.
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One of the characters depicted in Coral Carnival is Jab Jab—an important symbol of Grenadian culture and freedom.
“Although the name translates to ‘double evil’, the masqueraders are not devils themselves or related to demonic culture,” explained Taylor. “Instead, they are satirizing the thoughts and actions of slave masters from the past.”
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The project was funded by the Grenadian Ministry of Implementation and Tourism, as well as by the World Bank.
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Randall Dolland, chairman of the Grenada Tourism Authority said the expansion not only enhances the visitor experience, but also “deepens our connection to the rich cultural tapestry of our nation.”
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