LINKING TO OTHER BLOGS

An urban area can be simply defined as an area with a large number of people residing in it; an area that has been significantly developed, or an area where the distance between buildings is very small. Urban areas generally indicate high populations, developed infrastructure, increases in social services etc. When defining a city or urban area various aspects of the city’s morphology must be considered as the culture of the urban areas are very diverse. Our blog focuses on expression of urban art within Trinidad and the way in which both urban dwellers and individuals in authority voice relay messages. Similarities between posts in the blog, “The Voice of the Urban” and posts within three of our colleagues blogs.

In the blog entitled,” Architecture and Caribbean Urban Spaces” by Kimara Dyer and Jhon Pierre, an entry was made pertaining to the importance of the game of cricket to the Caribbean region. In the post, an image of a monument of Brian Lara was displayed. The entry spoke about the influence of cricket to society; in terms of bringing persons together through successes of the West Indies Cricket team.herefore, the statute can be seen a powerful social force. This can be related to a post done in the blog “The Voice of the Urban”, on Mahatma Gandhi as he was also an icon and advocate of unity and togetherness of people. A helpful tip could be linking the images and content to scholarly articles and readings pertaining to architectural designs within the urban and their influences.

http://architecturecaribbeanurbanspaces.blogspot.com/ (CLICK LINK TO VIEW BLOG)

Another blog which can be related to our blog is entitled, “Urban Wire” by Jewel Paul and Thalia Thomas. In this blog a post on Marcus Garvey was done but the aspect was slightly different to that of “The Voice of the Urban”. The statue was mentioned with a little background information which was similar. When they spoke about the monument of Marcus Garvey. Their aspect focused on the city of San Fernando, its development and the construction of the Harris Promenade. They spoke about the reason why it was constructed the way it was and the layout of the promenade’s features, such as benches and trees. The blog post done in “The Voice of the Urban” focused on Marcus Garvey as well, but spoke more about his legacy and the influence he had on the world. He created movements for freedom and empowerment of blacks. Overall the photos on the blog were interesting and their content was sufficient. However, the content could been more in depth and expanded a little more.

http://urbanwirett.blogspot.com/(CLICK LINK TO VIEW BLOG)

In the blog, “"The Magnificent Seven" - History and Architecture”, we discovered a link between the post of the Queens Royal College Ceiling to be somewhat of an architectural abstract. This concept of abstract art was similar to the graphite image were in Wood brook, Port-of-Spain. Both posts require a creative eye to see its beauty, as well as, to understand the message the artists are trying to say. Both pieces aimed at representing art that deviates from traditional and contemporary forms of representation.  The blog overall had great content that showed the architectural aspects within urban spaces and how they change over time. Ample information was given on the construction and the historical backgrounds of these different architectural features, such as the influence of the design, the materials used in construction and why they were constructed.

http://trinimag7.blogspot.com/(CLICK LINK TO VIEW BLOG)

The very famous whisper wall at the Student Activity Centre at the University of the West Indies captures one’s attention immediately with its bright colour, vibrancy and creativity. This creative piece was done by students and an artist, portraying the different cultures and aspects within the university. With a closer look at the picture, one can see elements of the university’s diverse student population. Starting from the left side of the wall, there are the letters “SAC” indicating the Student Activity Centre.

The shuttle service, one of the many services students depend on for transportation to and from school is portrayed on the wall by the painting of a bus. There is a shuttle stop located by the activity centre. There is then the painting of two students, a male and a female which shows that there is mixing of the school population as well as the interaction between the students. Beside this is the head of a Rastafarian individual, wearing a hat with the colours with Rastafari colours gold, green, red and black. This goes to show the incorporation of a cultural aspect within the institution where all cultures and races are seen as one and the equally accepted leading to peaceful bonds and relationships between each other. The musical note portrays the university’s involvement in music and the creative arts. UWI is known for having multi-talented students who are involved in different art forms, such as the performing arts or the creative arts who showcasing the university’s diversity. Cards are included as well on the wall, because at the activity centre it is a norm for students and their friends to gather for card games and other past time activities. Papers and pencils tell that students come here not only to relax and unwind their minds but to complete assignments and group activities together as well. The number of papers painted and the way in which they are scattered goes to show the nature of the typical student, who may be frantically working to get there assignments done on time. As we approach closer to right end of the wall we see a pool ball and a football, showing these 2 activities close association with the activity centre and the students. The football is seen with flames behind showing that this sport is highly favoured by students and if one looks observes its size, it is larger than many of the other figures. Another student is seen, with a book and an individual is seen behind. One interesting feature seen painted on the wall, was the painting of the legend Che Guevara, who was an Argentine Marxist revolutionary, guerrilla leader, author along with many other posts and was seen as the symbol of rebellion and an inspiration to many. These students must be inspired by his work and hence decided that it would be a great idea to include his signature painting.

The students are really the main focus at the activity centre; it was created for them to engage in fun activities and interact and socialize with each other. This makes the university an even more interactive community. 

Photo taken by Regene Pope

Capitalism deals with production of goods for the purpose of profit and is based on the “free market or free enterprise”. Individuals, especially those who have power, benefit from those who depend on their companies and businesses.[1] Multinational and transnational corporations for example are features of capitalism, and actually impact on local production. These corporations lead to influxes of foreign goods and services, which causes competition within the local market. This may drive local competitors out of business, as persons may have a higher preference for foreign services and products based on the notion that “foreign is always better”.

A free spirit, left their opinion of capitalism at a bus stop, and spray painted the words, “Capitalism is slavery! Wake up! Resist! Revolt!” This is actually true in a sense, because it can be compared to that of slavery. Society is still being controlled by elites, they influence what we eat, wear, buy and who we are. These companies open subdivisions and hire labour within that country of establishment, and sometimes the workers are ill-treated and even under paid. The incomes these locals obtain make it hard to support their families especially in these times where prices of commodities, services and groceries are increasing. It’s more difficult to earn a living with these low income salaries. The MNC’s and TNC’s make huge profits from the countries where the subdivisions are placed and most of the profit goes back to them. So the fact that we are dependent on other countries for our livelihoods is the reason why the person says to resist the capitalist system and revolt. It would be wise that more support and focus be placed on local corporations which would be beneficial in the long run and make nations even more independent. This is just the economic approach of capitalism, but there are societal effects which can be linked to the economics.   

This individual’s placement of their message was brilliant. It is placed in a public space, where there is always a flow of people, the bus stop. Along the bus route there is dense settlement and therefore while people commute daily they will notice this message. The creator is trying to convey to the public and make them aware that we are under a capitalist system and wants others to come to the same understanding that we need to move away from it. This picture was taken while travelling along the Priority bus route, heading towards Port of Spain.

Graffiti may be seen as a degrading feature in society, especially within the urban where everything is expected to be of a certain standard. Jane Jacobs was an activist who had a strong influence on the study of the urban. Her view of graffiti was that it actually was a positive addition to society, by giving us a sense of place and allows the voices community to speak out by being creative and expressive in a non- violent manner.[2] It was also seen as a part of youth culture. Consequently, the individual responsible for this capitalism graffiti was expressing the way they felt about the issue and wants us the public to take hint and be conscious of the matter. When one looks at this message, it really makes one think about capitalism and its negative effects, which can contribute to backwardness or slowed development of a country. This graffiti in particular is sending a very real message about the world today. It indicates the influence and impacts of power and resistance.  

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[1] "American Capitalism and Its Effects." Capitalism. December 22, 2009. Accessed April 05, 2016. https://www.mtholyoke.edu/~waldr20m/classweb/worldpolitics/capitalism.html.

[2] Jacobs, J (1961), The Death and Life of Great American Cities, New York: Vintage Books.

PHOTO TAKEN BY MAKEELA ALEXANDER AT INDEPENDENCE SQUARE, PORT-OF-SPAIN

Arthur Andrew Cipriani was born in the year 1875. He was involved with recruiting soldiers at the outbreak of World War I and was subsequently made a captain in the British West India Regiment and left for the front in 1917. On his return to Trinidad, he became a leader not just to, the ex-soldiers but to labourers as well. He became known throughout Trinidad and Tobago as the champion of the barefoot man.[1] A memorial to Captain Cipriani was erected in the heart of the capital’s Independence Square; at the base of Frederick Street. This was done on the day of the 50th anniversary of Trinidad and Tobago's Independence. the statue was covered with a lavish coating of black paint.

Cipriani lead the first important industrial strike which occurred in Trinidad, in November 1919, during a labour dispute on Port-of-Spain wharves. He was nominated president of the Trinidad Workingmen’s Association, at that time the country’s leading workers’ organisation and in 1925 became Mayor of Port-of-Spain, which propelled him to a seat on the Legislative Council in Trinidad’s first general elections. He was an advocate, who retired from public life having never lost his seat on the City Council since he has been first elected. Additionally, he had a record of eight terms as Mayor[2].

 He played a very instrumental role  in terms of upholding the interests of the “unwashed and unsoaped barefoot man” against those of big business and government, Cipriani fought tirelessly for workman’s compensation, old age pensions, an eight-hour day, minimum wage laws and compulsory education. He defended legislation to protect trade unions and in 1932 was successful in getting a Trade Union Ordnance enacted by the British government[3].

Therefore today persons are able to get shorter working hours, he also fought for compulsory education and he attempted to instill a feeling of pride within children; where they are proud of the land in which they were born. Also he battled to end to plantation child labour and the end of the Crown Colony System. Moreover, on the Legislative Council, he championed key issues such as “old age” pension, women’s rights and minimum wage. Consequently, his battles have afforded us the opportunities and rights we have today, which has greatly improved the lives of citizens. As a result, his name is also carried through the Cipriani Labour College and Cipriani Boulevard.

It can be said that Captain Cipriani was the pioneer of the nationalist movement of Trinidad and Tobago. By means of his memorial statue, we commemorate our own historical development, our own positive action, our own native history made by native hands, and the aspiration of our native peoples.” Cipriani Boulevard in Port-of-Spain and Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies are also named in his honour^[4]. Hence, its location in the heart of the city allows citizens to reminisce on the remarkable works this hero has done.

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[1] http://www.nalis.gov.tt/Research/SubjectGuide/Biographies/BiographiesAC/tabid/100/Default.aspx?PageContentID=260

[2] https://guardian.co.tt/lifestyle/2011/06/19/legendary-labour-leaders

[3] http://www.trinigourmet.com/index.php/labour-day-menu/

[4] http://www.newsday.co.tt/day/1,60206.html#foto

PHOTO TAKEN BY MAKEELA ALEXANDER AT SAN FERNANDO TRINIDAD

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, more commonly known as ‘Mahatma’ (meaning ‘Great Soul’) was born in Porbandar, Gujarat, in North West India, on 2nd October 1869, into a Hindu Modh family. His father was the Chief Minister of Porbandar, and his mother’s religious devotion meant that his upbringing was infused with the Jain pacifist teachings of mutual tolerance, non-injury to living beings and vegetarianism[1].

The memorial to Mahatma Gandhi is situated at the centre of San Fernando, on Harris Promenade. Ghandi was a great civil leader of India. His work and techniques of peaceful civil disobedience have been an inspiration to people not only in Trinidad and Tobago, but also, worldwide. He was an advocate of the truth, nonviolence and peace. Additionally, he struggled against racial social, and economical injustice in countries such as Africa and India. Hence, he was very instrumental to India’s independence.  This is why he is referred to as the Father of that nation. This is why he is referred to as the Father of that nation. The monument consists of a bronze statue which was brought from India and erected in 1952 to a solid platform. It bears an inscription on the front and the monument stands at least 5 meters (15 feet) high[2].

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[1] http://uwispace.sta.uwi.edu/dspace/handle/2139/6302?show=full

Gandhi’s teachings still permeates through society today and the many positive quotes spoken by Gandhi can be considered very useful in the shaping of communities and areas today within the country. Examples of this include: “When it (violence) appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.” In urban areas crime is a social factor which is quite prevalent. Therefore, by evaluating this quote, we can see the misconception of violent acts as being good at first and may be very attractive initially but, in reality the permanency of it is evil. Hence, he calls upon us to partake in good deeds and make the areas we live with better places through our actions. Among the most popular, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world”[3]. This quote basically gives the message that whatever changes individuals would like to effect in their society has to begin with them. Therefore, when this memorial is viewed persons are reminded of their ability to change and shape the world in which they live, and on a smaller scale in the immediate space in which they reside. We have the duty to make that first step of change. This may result in a wonderful experience by allowing persons to undergo a transformation process for oneself, which in turn would positively impact on others within person’s environment as well as in the environment itself.

Click the link below to view a video of the biography of Mahatma Gandhi, The Father of The Nation.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQBgy1yrdHg

           

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[2] http://www.history.co.uk/biographies/mahatma-gandhi

[3] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/20140813120052-14431679-the-story-behind-you-must-be-the-change-you-wish-to-see-in-the-world

Photo taken by Makeela Alexander

Below is a little history of the steelpan and how it makes us feel as proud Trinbagonians. It is based on the statue above which states it was a tribute to the Steelband Movement by the San Fernando Borough Council, 23rd of December, 1977. This portrayal of art and creativity has a story to be told and when one looks at this, they should instantly be able to know this story. Which is the fact that experimenting led to innovation... Read on and enjoy!

Mr. Steelpan...

What is that I hear? The beating of a beautiful instrument…

Filling the atmosphere with happiness, reminding us of the beautiful culture we have.

It’s only fair that we take time to appreciate the story behind the steelpan.

Imagine, this magnificent creation started in TnT…    

Carnival, the greatest show on Earth led to its innovation,

As experiments were done to find a new instrument for the celebrations,

The oil drum was seen as the perfect item and “Tadaaaa”…It evolved into an instrument.

And to add, Port of Spain, the great urban centre was its origin,

Yes! The destitute urban dwellings of the Capital…Who knew?

This goes to show that within the urban are not only grand developments,

But their is creativity, innovation, and great intelligence.

And it's a global phenomenon to associate steelpan with Jamaica,

But it started and continues to play throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

The steelband brings crowds of people of all walks of life together,

Especially around Carnival, where the place to be is Panorama.

Society becomes one, high class, low class, middle class, everyone unites...

Personally, the steelpan brings calmness, peace and joy,

It is one of the symbols of our culture and a symbol of self-expression.

Isn’t TnT sweet, “Ah man watch an oil drum and see music…”

According to David Rudder, “This is de land of… de land of oil and music!”

By: Regene Pope and Makeela Alexander

(Here's a link to experience the profound beauty of steelpan music and the joy it brings, just copy, paste and enjoy!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l9UUFoU9EU )

Photo Taken by Makeela Alexander at San Fernando

Marcus Mosiah Garvey was born in Jamaica, on the 17^th of August, 1887 and was a strong advocate for black power. He was the founder of the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA) which was very successful in New York. Garvey’s aspiration was for African- Americans to go back to their homeland, Africa.

Alfred Graham designed the statue and monument of Garvey, located on the San Fernando promenade. Information on the statue states that he visited Trinidad in the year 1937 and spoke at the Gaiety Cinema, which was located on Mucurapo Street, San Fernando.  Along with this description on the statue were the words, “Dedicated to all Afrikans, By the Afrikan Advancement Association (A.A.A.).”

Marcus Garvey had an influence on reggae music, especially that of Bob Marley. The lyrics of “Redemption song”, by Marley, “Emancipate yourself from mental slavery” were taken directly from a speech given by Garvey in Nova Scotia in October of 1937.^[1] Marley was not the only reggae artist influenced by Garvey and his work. There were other artists and musicians such as Peter Tosh, The Mighty Diamonds, and Garnett Silk. Not only was Garvey an Influence to music, he impacted on Rastafarianism. He was seen as a very inspirational figure and it was stated that Garvey’s believers in Jamaica were the originators of the Rastafarian movement^[2].

Marcus Garvey’s Universal Negro Improvement Association designed the Pan-African flag, which consists of the colours red, black and green, where according to the UNIA, red represents blood, black represents the race and green represents the lush vegetation of their Motherland, Africa. Marcus Garvey was a very wise and intelligent individual, and led one of the biggest black revolutions, giving a voice to blacks and empowering and inspiring those who believed in his work. Marcus Garvey passed away on June 10th, 1940 and was recognized as Jamaica's first national hero.

When the Marcus Garvey monument is viewed by the public, they are reminded of the notion of Black Awareness and the entire idea of being familiar with one’s culture, heritage and history^[3]; which has shaped us into the people we are today. It also reminds us of powerful words such as freedom, justice and equality; which are also influential factors of our lives. Garvey was fiercely proud of being black and although some of his goals were controversial, he helped us to understand concepts such as Black Nationalism which help evoke feelings of pride in us as “black” people. He particularly focused on African people because of his realization at the time, that they always occupied the lowest strata of society^[4]. However, his works have influenced the region of Trinidad as a whole; in terms of his ideologies bringing various communities together and making areas that was once segregated, united. The island, being a very multi-racial and culturally diverse, can relate to the message of Marcus Garvey as he encourages us to have self-pride i.e. pride in our race by embracing of “blackness”.

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[1]"Geoffrey Philp: Marcus Garvey's Influence." Marcus Garvey's Influence|Geoffrey Philp. June 8, 2011. Accessed March 29, 2016. http://geoffreyphilp.blogspot.com/2011/06/marcus-garveys-influence.html.

[2] Parmett, Meredith. "THE DREAD LIBRARY." Marcus Garvey Is a Man That Lived a Life with a Goal Many Thought Was Impossible, but His Ideals Were Many Peoples Dream. Accessed March 29, 2016. https://debate.uvm.edu/dreadlibrary/parmett.html.

[3]History.com Staff. "Marcus Garvey." History.com. 2009. Accessed March 29, 2016. http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/marcus-garvey.

[4]"Marcus Garvey: Fast Facts." History.com. Accessed March 29, 2016. http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/marcus-garvey/videos/marcus-garvey-fast-facts.