Something to take the edge off.
Exponentially growing in popularity and size, Notting Hill Carnival exists as a way to celebrate Caribbean heritage and community. Starting as a small community children’s street fair in the 1960's by Trinidadian activist Claudia Jones to promote unity after race riots, it is a welcome advent in an increasingly divided society.
James tells the story of his experience moving through the infamous West London street party.
"My first Notting Hill Carnival was 2003. The big tune that year was ‘Gimme the Light’, and I've been nearly every year since. Particularly for me its the folkloric like sound systems, some dating back to the 70s, and the blend of Trinidadian street procession and the Jamaican sound systems that makes it such a special event to photograph."
"No one goes to Carnival pin-sharp" says James, and this is mirrored in his approach to the images. Using a slow shutter in broad daylight creates and slow, hazy feeling - soaking up the noise and unequivocal joy of London's Caribbean community.
