Carnivalesque: John Lyons’ Journey through Color, Folklore, and Self-Revelation
Table of Contents
- Carnivalesque: John Lyons’ Journey through Color, Folklore, and Self-Revelation
- John Lyons: A Carnival of Cultural Reflections
- Carnival’s Enduring Legacy: From Trinidad to Mardi Gras and Beyond
- John Lyons: A Celebration of Carnivalesque Culture
- John Lyons: Unleashing the Spirit of Carnivalesque Through Art
John Lyons’ childhood in Trinidad and Tobago was a vibrant tapestry woven with folklore, beliefs, and rituals. “They were part of my consciousness and lived as a visceral reality from a tender age,” he recalls, referring to figures like the jumbie-owl, a ghost bird, and the soucouyant, a shapeshifting vampire. These fantastical beings, alongside the real-world “devils” of carnival, fueled his creativity and would later find their way onto his canvases.
Now, at 91, Lyons is experiencing a career resurgence with “Carnivalesque,” a major touring exhibition showcasing six decades of his artistic journey. The exhibition, which began in 2023, is a testament to his enduring talent and a long-overdue recognition of his contributions to the art world. “It’s a strange, humbling experience,” he says, “It is as though I’m looking at the work of someone else on the walls.”
Lyons’ journey began in the 1950s when he arrived in London as part of the Windrush generation, seeking to pursue his passion for art at Goldsmiths’ College.However, upon graduation, he faced the harsh reality of limited opportunities for Black artists. Undeterred, he moved to Manchester, where he dedicated himself to teaching art while simultaneously nurturing a burgeoning Black arts scene in the north.He collaborated with fellow artists like Denzil Forrester, Alnoor Mitha, and Lin Tang, establishing artists’ initiatives and studios that provided a platform for marginalized voices.”Teaching was an essential part of my journey of discovery,” he explains. “It became an intense part of my painting activity in my studio. I’d share the dialog I was having with my paintings with students.”
Lyons’ artistic exploration took a notable turn in the 1980s, coinciding with the rise of a new British Black arts movement. While younger artists focused on identity politics and social issues, Lyons’ vision was more introspective. He delved into the past roots of carnival and masquerade, exploring it as a space of resistance and cultural expression for enslaved Africans.
His paintings, however, transcend mere representation. They delve into timeless themes of self-discovery, the artist’s journey, and the limitations of knowledge. He channels the allegorical figures and rituals of his heritage into abstract explorations of color, form, and intuition.
“Painting is an adventure in creative uncertainty,” he says. “It is a way of existing in a world we still know very little about.”
Lyons’ artistic influences are diverse, ranging from European modernist masters like Klee, Kandinsky, Chagall, and Matisse to the vibrant traditions of his Caribbean homeland. His work is a unique blend of these influences, creating a visual language that is both personal and worldwide.
The “Carnivalesque” exhibition is not an endpoint but a new beginning for Lyons. The renewed attention and recognition have ignited his creative spirit, fueling his desire to continue exploring the world through his art. “The attention has ignited more inspiration and energy,” he says. “Being an artist and poet is my way of living as you breathe to keep alive.”
Practical Takeaways for U.S. Readers:
Embrace your heritage: Like Lyons, explore your own cultural roots and traditions. They can be a rich source of inspiration for your creative endeavors.
Find your community: Connect with other artists and creatives who share your interests and passions. Building a supportive network can be invaluable for your artistic growth.
Never stop learning: Continuously seek out new knowledge and experiences. This will keep your creative spirit alive and inspire new ideas.
Be persistent: Don’t give up on your artistic dreams,even when faced with challenges. Lyons’ journey is a testament to the power of perseverance.
* Celebrate diversity: Appreciate the unique perspectives and experiences that different cultures bring to the world.
Lyons’ story is a reminder that art can transcend boundaries and connect us on a deeper level. His vibrant canvases, infused with the spirit of carnival and the richness of his heritage, invite us to celebrate the power of creativity and the enduring human spirit.
John Lyons: A Carnival of Cultural Reflections
John Lyons’ art is a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of his Trinidadian heritage,his colonial upbringing,and his deep engagement with the complexities of identity. His recent retrospective exhibition, “Carnivalesque,” at the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester, offers a captivating journey through six decades of his artistic evolution, showcasing his mastery of painting, poetry, and prose.
Lyons’ work is not merely aesthetically pleasing; it’s a profound exploration of cultural hybridity, the power of storytelling, and the enduring human search for meaning.Masquerading: A Party of Hybridity
One of the most striking pieces in the exhibition is “Masquerading” (1992). As art historian and writer Kirsty Jukes notes in her review [[1]], this painting is a “unsettling vision” where “shapeshifters descend on the viewer from a Technicolor sky.” These figures, including the soucouyant, a blood-sucking flying crone from Trinidadian folklore, blend European vampire traditions with African influences, reflecting the rich cultural fusion that defines Lyons’ homeland.
This blending of traditions is a recurring theme in Lyons’ work, mirroring the complex realities of post-colonial societies. Think of the melting pot of cultures in the united States,where traditions from around the world converge and interact,creating a unique and dynamic cultural landscape. Lyons’ art captures this same sense of cultural dynamism, celebrating the beauty and complexity that arises from the intersection of different traditions.
The Counsellor: Embracing Uncertainty
In contrast to the vibrant energy of “masquerading,” “The Counsellor” (1996-98) presents a more introspective and contemplative mood. This self-portrait features Lyons alongside a jumbie-bird, a creature from Trinidadian folklore that ofen symbolizes death or the manifestation of the dead. However, for Lyons, the jumbie-bird represents a creative guide, a figure that encourages him to embrace uncertainty and navigate the liminal spaces between life and death.
This theme of embracing uncertainty resonates deeply in today’s world, where rapid technological advancements, political instability, and climate change create a sense of constant flux. Lyons’ art reminds us that uncertainty is not something to be feared,but rather a source of creative inspiration and personal growth.
Carnivalesque: A Celebration of Life and Death
The title of the exhibition, “Carnivalesque,” is a nod to the vibrant and often subversive cultural celebrations that take place in many parts of the world, including Trinidad. carnival is a time for revelry, for challenging social norms, and for exploring the boundaries between the sacred and the profane.
Lyons’ art embodies this spirit of carnivalesque, celebrating the full spectrum of human experience, from joy and laughter to sorrow and loss. His work reminds us that life is a complex and multifaceted journey,and that it is through embracing both the light and the dark that we can truly appreciate its richness.
Practical Applications: Finding Inspiration in the Carnivalesque
Lyons’ art offers valuable insights that can be applied to our own lives. Here are a few practical takeaways:
Embrace cultural diversity: Just as Lyons celebrates the fusion of cultures in his work, we can strive to appreciate and learn from the diverse perspectives and traditions that exist in our own communities.
Find beauty in the unexpected: Lyons’ art often features unexpected juxtapositions and surprising combinations, reminding us to look beyond the surface and find beauty in the unconventional.
Embrace uncertainty: Life is full of uncertainties, but Lyons’ art shows us that uncertainty can be a source of creativity and growth. Instead of fearing the unknown, we can embrace it with curiosity and openness.
Celebrate the full spectrum of human experience: Lyons’ art reminds us that life is a journey that encompasses both joy and sorrow, love and loss.By embracing the full spectrum of human experience, we can live more authentic and meaningful lives.
By exploring the themes of cultural hybridity, the power of storytelling, and the enduring human search for meaning, John Lyons’ art invites us to engage with the world in a more profound and meaningful way.His “Carnivalesque” exhibition is a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to connect us to our shared humanity.
Carnival’s Enduring Legacy: From Trinidad to Mardi Gras and Beyond
The vibrant world of carnival, with its dazzling costumes, infectious music, and joyous revelry, transcends geographical boundaries. From the sun-drenched streets of trinidad to the bustling parades of New Orleans, carnival celebrations echo with a shared history and a powerful message of liberation.
John Lyons’ painting, “Before Ash Wednesday in Trinidad, 1988,” captures the essence of this cultural phenomenon. The image, featuring a purple Pierrot amidst a throng of masked figures, speaks to the carnival’s enduring tradition of blurring social lines and challenging authority.as the caption explains, “In both traditions, carnival takes place in the run-up to ash Wednesday, originally as a counter to the ruling order. Its masked costumes acted as disguises for its participants, upending social roles and enabling mimicry and protest.”
This historical context is crucial to understanding the significance of carnival. Rooted in pre-Christian pagan festivals,carnival emerged as a time for revelry and release before the solemnity of Lent. In many cultures, it served as a platform for social commentary and resistance against oppressive systems.
Carnival’s Global Tapestry:
While the image of a Trinidadian carnival might conjure up images of steel drums and flamboyant costumes, carnival celebrations take on diverse forms across the globe.
Brazil’s Carnival: Perhaps the most famous carnival celebration, Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro carnival is a spectacle of samba music, elaborate floats, and dazzling costumes. It draws millions of visitors each year, showcasing the country’s vibrant culture and artistic expression.
Venice Carnival: This centuries-old tradition in Italy is known for its elegant masks and elaborate costumes. The masked revelers parade through the city’s canals and squares,creating an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue.
Mardi Gras in New Orleans: This American celebration, with its signature beads, parades, and King Cake, has deep roots in French and Spanish colonial history. It’s a time for feasting, music, and revelry, culminating in the “Fat Tuesday” before Ash Wednesday.carnival’s Enduring Relevance:
Carnival’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend cultural boundaries and connect people through shared experiences of joy,music,and celebration.
Social Commentary: Carnival often serves as a platform for social commentary and critique.Costumes and performances can satirize political figures, social norms, and cultural issues, providing a space for dissent and expression.
Community Building: Carnival celebrations bring communities together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity. The collective experience of music, dance, and revelry strengthens social bonds and creates lasting memories.
Cultural Preservation: Carnival traditions often preserve ancient customs and cultural heritage. By celebrating these traditions, communities ensure the continuity of their cultural identity for future generations.
carnival in the Modern World:
In today’s world, carnival celebrations continue to evolve and adapt to changing social contexts.
Technological Integration: Social media and digital platforms have become integral to modern carnival experiences,allowing people to share their experiences and connect with others around the world.
Environmental Awareness: Many carnival organizers are increasingly incorporating lasting practices into their events, reducing waste and promoting environmental duty.
* Inclusivity and Diversity: Carnival celebrations are becoming more inclusive and diverse, welcoming people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Carnival’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to inspire joy, foster community, and challenge the status quo. Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Rio de janeiro or the festive atmosphere of New Orleans, carnival reminds us of the power of collective celebration and the importance of preserving cultural traditions.
John Lyons: A Celebration of Carnivalesque Culture
John Lyons, a Caribbean British artist and poet, is captivating audiences with his vibrant and thoght-provoking exhibition, “Carnivalesque,” currently on display at The Box in Plymouth, England. This retrospective, running from February 8th to May 5th, 2025, offers a captivating journey into Lyons’ artistic world, exploring his profound connection to Trinidadian folklore and its enduring influence on his work.
Lyons’ art is a kaleidoscope of color and energy, reflecting the joyous and sometimes unsettling spirit of Trinidadian Carnival. As he describes it, the folkloric characters and mythology of his homeland became “realities etched in my psyche.” [[1]] This deep-seated connection is evident in his paintings, drawings, and woodcuts, which pulsate with the rhythm and vibrancy of Carnival.
One especially striking piece,”Mama Look a Mas Passin,” 1990,exemplifies this connection. The painting, featuring looming devils and a sense of both wonder and trepidation, captures the visceral experience of witnessing a Carnival procession as a child.[[1]] This work, like many others in the exhibition, invites viewers to step into Lyons’ world and experience the magic and complexity of Trinidadian culture.
Carnivalesque: more Than Just a Celebration
Carnivalesque,a term coined by Russian literary scholar Mikhail Bakhtin,refers to a cultural phenomenon characterized by temporary inversion of social norms,playful mockery of authority,and a celebration of the grotesque and the carnivalesque.In the context of Lyons’ work, Carnivalesque transcends mere festivity. It becomes a powerful lens through which to explore themes of identity, colonialism, and the enduring legacy of oral traditions. Lyons’ art, infused with the spirit of Carnival, challenges viewers to confront societal structures and embrace the transformative power of cultural expression.
Lyons’ Influence: Bridging Cultures and Inspiring creativity
Lyons’ impact extends beyond the realm of art. He has been a dedicated educator, fostering creativity and cultural understanding in generations of students. His work has also inspired countless artists and writers, both in the UK and beyond.
For U.S. audiences, Lyons’ art offers a unique opportunity to engage with a vibrant and frequently enough overlooked cultural tradition.The themes of cultural identity, social commentary, and the celebration of the unconventional resonate deeply with contemporary American experiences.
Practical Applications: Embracing the Carnivalesque Spirit
Lyons’ work invites us to consider how we can incorporate the spirit of Carnivalesque into our own lives. Here are a few practical applications:
Challenge the Status Quo: Embrace playful dissent and question established norms. Use humor and creativity to challenge societal expectations and spark meaningful conversations.
Celebrate Diversity: embrace the richness and complexity of different cultures. Seek out opportunities to learn from and celebrate the unique perspectives of others.
* Find Joy in the Unexpected: Be open to spontaneity and embrace the unexpected. allow yourself to be surprised and delighted by the world around you.
By embracing the spirit of Carnivalesque, we can create a more inclusive, vibrant, and joyful world. John lyons’ art serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of creativity and cultural expression.
John Lyons: Unleashing the Spirit of Carnivalesque Through Art
In an exclusive interview, Caribbean British artist John Lyons shares his artistic journey, the enduring power of Trinidadian carnival, and its relevance in today’s world.
Q: Your exhibition “Carnivalesque” at The Box in Plymouth explores your deep connection to Trinidadian folklore. How does this heritage influence your work?
J.L.: Trinidadian folklore, with its vibrant characters and mythology, is deeply ingrained in my psyche. My art is an exploration of thes vivid realities, bringing them to life through vibrant colors and energetic compositions. Witnessing Carnival as a child was a profound experience, and those memories continue to inspire and fuel my creativity.
Q: your artwork often captures the duality of Carnival – the joyful party alongside a sense of unease. Can you elaborate on this?
J.L.: Carnival is a time of liberation and revelry, but it also has a darker side, a confrontational energy that challenges societal norms and speaks truth to power. In my work, I try to capture this complexity, exploring the juxtaposition of light and shadow, joy and discomfort, that makes Carnival such a potent cultural phenomenon.
Q: The term “Carnivalesque” has been widely used to describe this cultural experience. How does this concept apply to your art?
J.L.: “Carnivalesque,” as defined by Mikhail Bakhtin, celebrates temporary inversions of social order and playful mockery of authority. My art embodies this spirit by challenging viewers to question established norms and embrace the transformative power of cultural expression. It’s about finding freedom and creativity through absurdity and a celebration of the unconventional.
Q: How has your work resonated with audiences both in the UK and beyond?
J.L.: It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how people connect with my art. I believe my exploration of cultural identity, social commentary, and the power of ritual resonates universally. Audiences find themselves drawn to the vibrant colors, expressive characters, and the underlying themes of liberation and self-expression.
Q: What are your hopes for future generations experiencing your work and the spirit of Carnivalesque?
J.L.: My hope is that my art inspires creativity, empathy, and a deeper understanding of diverse cultures. I want people to embrace the spirit of Carnivalesque in their own lives, challenging