I had a lot of fun this year covering all manner of things cultural and artsy. It was very inspiring to see people doing their thing in this country. It belies the rab that nothing good can come from here. I saw amazing art, and was party to enlightening conversations about design and history.
I can’t wait for 2017.

My favourite art exhibition was Josh Lu’s Paradise. It’s his cautionary tale for a country that doesn’t protect it’s heritage, built or otherwise. That has devolved into violence, and doesn’t seem to know it’s way out. That he quoted my brilliant friend Niama Sandy in his artist’s statement was icing on the cake. But I’ll keep looking out for Josh’s work.

He’s currently in London as one of the British Council’s 2017 TAARE artists.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qyeMFnv6S4?rel=0]

Adele Todd’s Black Guard was also another favourite. I knew that she worked in embroidery, but I really didn’t expect it to have such an impact. The show took a hard look at our security services, and burgeoning surveillance state.
It was beyond cool that she got the Museum to paint the exhibition room red. You really should have seen it.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRDhPnM-Z1U?rel=0]

And then there was the Cazabon Exhibition at the Diplomatic Centre. I’ve written about that experience on this blog. I didn’t get to go back and see them, but I’m lucky to have seen them with Geoffery MacLean, so I consider myself fortunate.

I got to see Stickfight for the first time. I know, I know. I highly recommend it, it’s my intention to make this my new Carnival tradition.

Viewing tip. Look out for the paramedic who is thoroughly enjoying the match-ups. Bless him, he’s not letting his fun prevent him from doing his job. He made my night.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWL5ov4Tnw4?rel=0]

From Fete Fonts now Sign Books, to Fashion and Film Festivals galore. This year was an eye opening one for me, so I’m really looking forward to what 2017 has to offer.