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Personal Reflections on the Impact of the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas

In this article, the author shares her personal reflections on how the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas, presented by Peter Minshall and his team of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival MAS Artists, forever changed her life. The author reflects on her pursuit of the American Dream, her introduction to the world of Mas through her late brother, and her pivotal moment of experiencing the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas presentation. She describes the powerful message behind the costumes and how it inspired her to pursue her own creative passions and embrace the world of Mas as a way to connect with her roots and forge new paths of self-expression. The article highlights how the Mas tradition brings people together and promotes peace, and how the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas was a major milestone for Minshall and for the Mas tradition as a whole.

A Journey Towards the American Dream: Stepping Foot in Dulles Airport, Virginia in 1973

I stepped foot in Dulles Airport, Virginia, USA on a chilly winter evening of December 22nd, 1973, eager to embark on my journey towards the American Dream. As a 17-year-old, I was uncertain about what lay ahead of me in the land of opportunities.

In February 1974, I secured my first full-time job in the USA as a teller at American Security Bank, located at the intersection of 15th and Pennsylvania Ave, just a stone’s throw away from the entrance to the White House in Washington DC. After my son’s birth in April 1980, I transitioned to a career in sales and became a New York Life Insurance Agent in June of the same year. Being the youngest and only black female agent at that time, I attained Star Club status, which epitomized the American Dream.

However, my obsession with the illusion of wealth and prosperity led me down a path of reckless spending, causing both financial and personal loss. My pursuit of material gains made me lose sight of my own emotional and cultural values. I had become consumed by the American Dream, blinded to the essence of what truly mattered.

Introduction to the World of Minshall Mas: A Personal Journey

My late brother Brian introduced me to the world of MAS through his passion for culture, dance, and music, which led me to Peter Minshall, a prodigy in the field. Meeting Peter was a pivotal moment in my life, setting me on a path of self-discovery and creativity. The presentation of The Adoration of Hiroshima Mas, Madame Hiroshima by Peter Minshall and his group of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival MAS artists at the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas march in 1985 was a seismic epiphany that forever changed my life.

Peter Minshall staged The Adoration of Hiroshima Mas presentation at Howard University campus grounds in Washington DC. The Minshall traveling crew brought in truckloads of costume parts from Trinidad and Tobago. There were also local nationals from Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean, and the Diaspora and there was electric and kinetic chemistry everywhere. Witnessing the power of MAS and the sense of community it created gave me a new perspective on life. It was a turning point that inspired me to pursue my own creative passions and to embrace the world of MAS as a way to connect with my roots and forge new paths of self-expression.

Adoration of Hiroshima MAS: A Pivotal Moment in Life

While Trinidad artists displayed unwavering commitment under Minshall’s artistic leadership at the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas campground, I became mesmerized by the spectacle of creative artistry and genius. The energy in the surrounding areas was palpable. I was star struck.

The Adoration of Hiroshima Mas was a powerful statement about the dangers of nuclear weapons and the need for peace in the world. Madame Hiroshima was a haunting and unforgettable image that captured the attention of audiences worldwide. I knew instinctively that the Madame Hiroshima mas experience was life changing.

All we are saying, is give peace a chance

In August 1985, the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas troupe gathered at Adams Smith Square. The square is located opposite the Pennsylvania Ave entrance of the White House in Washington, DC. The Adoration of Hiroshima Mas troupe were part of a peace march organized in Washington, D.C., commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Their gathering represented unity and political engagement and It transcended national and cultural boundaries.

The following day, a procession began at 16th and Constitution Ave in Washington DC, accompanied by The Malick Tassa drummers from Trinidad. Spectators, journalists, and people from all walks of life joined in as the entourage made their way across the Memorial Bridge to the Pentagon. Watch the historic moment captured here.

As the procession marched on, a chorus of voices spontaneously erupted into an involuntary chant, singing the famous words of John Lennon’s “All we are saying is Give Peace a Chance”. It was a powerful moment of unity and hope, and it demonstrated the far-reaching impact of the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas gathering.

Michaelangelo of MAS

Peter Minshall’s role in the world of art, history, and theater is that of a visionary and innovator. He has made significant contributions to the evolution of the Mas tradition and the broader world of carnival arts. His body of works is unique and powerful, and has been compared to the works of some of the greatest artists of past and present.

Minshall, like Michelangelo and DaVinci, has mastered a variety of artistic disciplines, including sculpture, painting, and theater design. He has brought together these different forms of expression to create works of Mas that are both visually stunning and intellectually engaging.

Minshall’s works also share certain thematic similarities with the works of these great artists. Like Michelangelo’s Pieta, for example, Minshall’s Mas Pieta explores themes of grief and loss. And like DaVinci’s Last Supper, Minshall’s Hallelujah celebrates the power of music and the creative arts to inspire and uplift.

While it may be difficult to compare the works of artists from different time periods and cultural contexts, it is clear that Minshall’s art creations stand out as a unique and powerful contribution to the world of art and theater. His innovative use of materials, his incorporation of traditional Caribbean cultural elements, and his commitment to exploring important social and political themes make him a significant figure in the history of art. He continues to be a great influence on the Art of the Mas.

Minshall’s  Art of MAS

Although Minshall was born in Guyana, referring to him as a Trinidadian artist does not intend to deny his place of birth. As Trinidadians and Tobagonians, we have embraced Minshall as a cultural icon. Peter Minshall created and developed The Art of the MAS on the soil of Trinidad and Tobago.

Peter Minshall characterizes his work by innovatively using materials like wire, paper, and fabric, as well as incorporating theatrical elements such as music, dance, and storytelling. His creations often blur the line between traditional masquerade and contemporary art. Many other Carnival designers and artists in Trinidad and Tobago and beyond show the influence of Peter Minshall in their work.

Peter Minshall’s notable collaborations outside of Carnival include designing sets and costumes for productions like “The Magic Flute” and “Aida,” and serving as creative consultant for events such as the Barcelona and Sydney Olympic Games. He has also collaborated with artists and musicians, including André Tanker and Derek Walcott, exploring themes of cultural exchange and identity in Mas presentations like “Ganges Meets the Nile” and “Odyssey.”

Here are some of Peter Minshall’s notable works at Carnival

Read this profile of Minshall to gain a comprehensive understanding of his history and an overview of his body of work.

These are just a few examples of Minshall’s notable works over the years, but his contributions to Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival and the wider world of artistic performance are extensively vast and varied.

My Enduring Admiration for Minshall’s Artistry in Mas

There’s something about the art of Mas, the creativity it evokes, and the sheer magnitude of its divine spirit that captivates me. I feel drawn to the unseen and limitless possibilities of the imagination. And amidst this grand tapestry of human form, Peter Minshall holds a timeless space in my orbit. He unmatchedly exerts his genius as a creative force in the world of Mas, and his work enamors me time and time again.

The Impact of Minshall’s Legacy on my Life

I’ll never forget the moment I saw the FAKE News on social media, during Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Tuesday, February 21 2023 that Minshall had passed away. My heart sank, and I spiraled into moments of grief and emotional meltdown. But when I heard that the news was not real, I felt a wave of relief and happiness wash over me.

In that moment of uncertainty, I found comfort in Minshall’s words of kindness and reassurance to me after I contacted him. He said, “I am here girl.” And I knew, he was ok and I was ok.

Through Minshall’s legacy, I’ve come to understand the importance of embracing my cultural heritage and the transformative power of art. I’ve learned that one can measure success not only by material wealth but also by the richness of their cultural identity and the impact that art can have on their life.

In many ways, Minshall’s life and work have had a profound impact on me. And while the universe may collapse into itself someday, I know that Minshall’s influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. Tada! Tantana.

The Adoration of Hiroshima Mas: Peter Minshall’s Creative Vision for a Message of Peace and Unity

Trinidadian MAS creator, designer, and artist played a significant role in creating the Madame Hiroshima Mas, which has become an important symbol of peace and unity. His creative genius and vision were crucial in merging the elements of Japanese and Caribbean culture into a cohesive and powerful message of hope and resilience. Minshall’s attention to detail and ability to transform ideas into tangible forms helped to bring the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas to life.

In conclusion, Peter Minshall’s contribution to the Adoration of Hiroshima Mas was a spark of creative genius that helped to create a powerful message of peace and unity. His legacy continues to inspire artists and designers in the Caribbean and beyond, reminding us of the enduring power of creativity and the importance of cultural heritage in shaping our world.