Partnering with KOOL, Rolling Stone explores the artistry of one of New Orleans’ most unique Mardi Gras traditions
Welcome to Mardi Gras Unmasked, a multi-part series exploring the cultures beneath the culture of New Orleans and Mardi Gras, celebrating the artistic, musical, and culinary heritage of The Big Easy and – most importantly – the people that keep the culture alive. Presented by Rolling Stone in partnership with KOOL, each story showcases facets of the New Orleans community that, together, weave the tapestry of Mardi Gras.
In the first episode, we’re exploring the tradition of Black Masking through the eyes of Mardi Gras Indian, Charles DuVernay. A lifelong artist and suit-maker, DuVernay is considered one of the most prolific creators in the Black Masking community, hand weaving intricately designed physical constructs to wear annually on Super Sunday. A member of the Downtown Indian tribe, the Monogram Hunters, DuVernay feels the weight of his work as his legacy.
To explore the story of Charles DuVernay and the Mardi Gras Indians, watch the full video below.
On that legacy, DuVernay says, “The Mardi Gras Indians pay homage back to the Indians that helped hide runaway slaves.” He continued, “For me, Mardi Gras Day, it’s a lineage, it’s a heritage. It’s in homage.”
KOOL
DuVernay created the art on KOOL’s limited edition Mardi Gras pack seen above. For more information, visit KOOL online (age restrictions apply).
