Marlon Griffith: Symbols of Endurance covers the recent artistic practice of Trinidadian-born artist Marlon Griffith, whose work derives its form (and to an extent its process) from
the performative, participatory and ephemeral characteristics that derive from the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival. Griffith’s work is based upon a reciprocal dialogue between ?Mas” (Masquerade,
the artistic component of the Trinidad Carnival) and contemporary art as a means of investigating the phenomenological aspect of the embodied experience, while interrogating contemporary
visual culture outside the traditional pitfalls of representation. Covering Griffith’s recent work, including his notable procession Ring of Fire, the book explores the Trinidadian origins
and process of the artist’s oeuvre, as well as its place within the current sphere of contemporary art.
This richly illustrated and vibrant book is complemented with essays by curators Claire Tancons and Emelie Chhangur, prominent Trindadian artist and writer Christopher Cozier, academic
Stephanie Springgay and performance artist and scholar Gabriel Levine, all of whom write uniquely about Griffith’s work and examine it through a number of insightful approaches.
Published in partnership with Art Gallery of York University.
