Long time since my last posting but I had some rather exciting news to share. This year has two significant events in the rather storied history of Barbados. First 2021 represents the 55th anniversary of my country becoming an independent and sovereign nation. And secondly, on November 30, we moved forward with a newly elected and installed President as our head of state and a brand new charter as Barbados becomes a constitutional republic. I'm excited, honestly even in the face of the daunting face of a pandemic and economic uncertainty.
Now why is this exciting to a photographer and for this blog exactly? Well in October, the Natural Cultural Foundation of Barbados issued a call for images to form a curated commemorative catalogue of 55 images in honour of the 55th Anniversary, entitled "Barbados - Our Country, Our People, Our Home". While the catalogue was not limited to photographers only, the theme description was stated as follows:
"As Barbados moves towards the status of a constitutional Republic, this catalogues presents an opportunity for you to share your understanding of freedom, Independence, self-determination and our rich legacy based on our history; our present realities and potential futures."
And I'm pleased to report that one of my entries, entitled "Self Determination", was selected for the catalogue. I felt, more than anything, the phrase "I Will Breathe" represented what I most wanted for the new republic. For all Barbadians to finally be able to feel true freedom, peace and a sense of inclusion. I think that it is an idea whose time has come. As I stated in my entry:
"Self determination is said to be the the process by which a person (or country) assumes control of their own life or future. I related the phrase "I will breathe" as a positive affirmation for every citizen of this country in this post colonial era."
Happy Independence Day, to the entire Bajan diaspora and everyone who loves Barbados as much as I do. You can find the link to the catalogue here, available for the next year: https://ncf.bb/my-barbados-our-country-our-people-our-home/
Camera and equipment details:
Camera: Nikon D7200
Lenses: Nikon 50mm F1.8 G Auto Focus-S
Lighting: Natural Light
Software: Adobe Premiere Elements 11
Until next time.... breathe.
Cover page of the NCF 55th Anniversary Commemorative Catalogue.
List of catalogue credits (artists and project managers etc.)
My entry “Self Determination” (Page 38)