One of the oldest, largest and most popular Junkanoo groups is the Shell Saxons Superstars, which has been led by Vola Francis for about 50 years. His leadership skills, drive, passion and exuberance has brought the Saxons many a win. Vola, who can always be found at the head of the group leading the charge down Bay Street, has become well-known for dressing in kingly garb, adorned with a magnificent crown and scepter. … Continue readingPercy ‘Vola’ Francis
We caught up with Max Taylor during his trip into Nassau to oversee the installation of one of his artworks. The piece, entitled “The Family”, was a massive polished wooden sculpture of four smooth, graceful, elongated forms melded together – a man, woman and two children. It was a commission for the newly opened arrivals terminal at the airport. … Continue readingMax Taylor
On the day that we photographed him for the Bahamian Project Franklyn ‘Count Bernadino’ Ellis had brought along one of his steel drums. We carefully set it up in front of the camera and he proceeded to plink out a famous melody for us. … Continue readingCount Bernadino
I have known Oswald Stubbs for a long time. He can be found almost every day at the main post office on East Hill and he sits near the first block of post boxes which is where my box is located. We always chat awhile and if he hasn’t seen me for more than a week or so he greets me with the grand welcoming gesture of kissing my hand. … Continue readingOswald ‘One Hand’ Stubbs
We had arranged that I would pick up Peanuts Taylor and bring him to our studio. Consequently, I had the opportunity to chat with him during the 15-minute drive to Popopstudios. By the time we reached the studio I felt like we were old friends. … Continue readingPeanuts Taylor
John “Chippie” Chipman walked into our studio, set his colourful, well-worn goatskin drum down in front of the camera, donned his straw hat, started drumming and didn’t stop. It’s what he does. Our studio reverberated with his tribal beats. It was a treat for us and it created a unique energy in the room. … Continue readingJohn ‘Chippie’ Chipman