Mardi Gras Costume Ideas

Slidell artist pays tribute to artistry of Mardi Gras Indians

The first time Lori Gomez saw the Algiers Indians, known as the Mohawk Hunters, they came over the levee one by one to reveal the beautiful costumes that they had beaded by working for an entire year. “I thought to myself that I would have to paint these captivating and exciting images. I grabbed my camera and memorized in my soul. I was so impressed with their effort and artistic creativity. Watching them dance was like seeing living art,” she said.

After she did the first three paintings, she forwarded photos of them to Chief Tyrone Casby , who in turn invited her to display them at a lecture he was giving about the tribe. Members give presentations about the history and culture of Mardi Gras Indians as well as the role that each member plays.

Anyone would be hard-pressed to choose a favorite painting in this exhibit. Together they make a striking view in a profusion of colors for anyone who enters the doors of DuBuisson Gallery on 300 Robert Street. Gomez has captured the emotion, pride of accomplishment and celebration of culture and history that the group presents as the Indians parade through streets.

Casby said, “The feeling I have on Mardi Gras morning is difficult to express. It is a mixture of relief and joy within a spiritual reality.” The painting of youngsters Kirsten Robinson and Kendell Hills dancing in beaded costumes proves this is a family tradition. Children and grandchildren learn the customs, and when Mohawk Hunters bead or perform, they do it as a family.

“I think anything that brings a family together is a good thing. As someone who didn’t have that kind of unity in my youth, I admire that in them. They also share and teach their customs in the Greater New Orleans community and in the world,” Gomez said. The chief’s son, Jamal Casby, has traveled to Guatemala, India, Sri Lanka, Dubai and Abu Dhabi to share information about the origins and culture of the tradition.

Chief Casby began his involvement with the Mohawk Hunters when he was 16. In 1980, he became the Big Chief, and has remained so ever since. For the artist, this series of paintings gave insight and information. She tried her hand at beading, and she listened to Casby’s lectures and did independent research in an effort to capture the magnificence of the ritual. Each member has a role to play when they arrive in costume.

Party Theme Ideas | Wedding themes

So you’re thinking about throwing a Mardi Gras theme party. What an brilliant idea. To help you out, you should take a peek at the Mardi Gras party theme ideas below.

1. You might mail out invites in the shape of a party mask or a fancy dress outfit. Utilize a graphics package to help you out with this, a good one comes standard with Microsoft Word.

2. In addition to your physical invites, you ought to as well set up a Facebook group with which to ask all your guests. This way everybody will be able to see who is going to be coming. This commonly has the effect of increasing attendance if they can see that it is a popular event. You can forward updates and get everyone in the mood from an early time.

3. The colors Mardi Gras are purple, green and gold which symbolize justice, faith and power. You should decorate your spot with these colors as much as possible. Balloons would be the obvious thing to get lots of. Also you should get table cloths and paper plates in these colors. If you would like to push it then you can get colored wall bunting.

4. When you hear Mardi Gras theme party, you instinctively think about dressing up. This is a obligation for this social gathering and you should order it on your invitations. You ought to attempt and dress as outlandishly as humanly possible. Some common costumes are famous royals from the past. Louis XVI is extremely popular along with his partner Marie Antoinette. Maybe you can go as a funny court jester or a scary clown? However the most common Mardi Gras costume is usually to go in drag. Men dress as women and girls dress as guys. This is easily carried out and should not cost you much.

5. For the songs I recommend you play what is popular in the New Orleans French Quarter. Jazz and blues music are brilliant for this occasion. Ensure you upload a selection to your Ipod within advance of the event so you’re not worrying about songs on the day.

6. As Mardi Gras is meant to be your last chance to indulge in all your favorite food before having to give it up for lent, you should have all your favorite food for the event. However typical food that is eaten would be Gumbo, Jambalaya and seafood.

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