DIRT_
The democratic essence of rally racing, with its open arms for every spectator, epitomizes Barbados—a land steeped in a rich history, tranquil beaches, and a rhythm that echoes beyond just tunes, permeating everyday life. DIRT_ embodies the very heartbeat of rally car racing, a sport that generously showers its exhilarating thrills on the entire Barbadian community.
DIRT_ also shines a light on the inextricable bond between racing and the culture. Narratives of local communities cheering on racers, and the spirited individuals driving this sport, illustrate the collective passion—both on the track and deeply embedded in the hearts of the Barbadian people and their traditions.
This bond hints at a striking juxtaposition—a world where engines roar with adrenaline, juxtaposed against serene landscapes and the island's mellow vibe. The paradox is striking, but oddly fitting, as moments of stillness can be discerned amidst the chaos of the rally.
From the precision demanded of the driver to heads panning in unison, or the wave of the flag to the crossing of the finish line, these indicators are a match-up of time:perception, which when synchronized offers a composition.
In this symphony, memories of my father and brother's ardent love for rally racing resonate deeply. Those spontaneous doodles of race cars and tracks, products of idle reverie, laid the foundation for DIRT_. The spark for DIRT_ was born in one such memory-infused moment.
Following this inspiration, I reached out to Jeffrey Panton, with the idea of wrapping his car for an upcoming race. The timeline was tight, but the idea was electric. As the design concepts evolved, Marcello Lewis, a dear friend, came onboard, infusing creativity into the project.
After getting Jeffrey's approval on our final design, we raced against time, sending it to SignGuyz, the local maestros of car wraps in Barbados. With the design set and our bags packed, Jack Revell (Director of Photography) and I embarked on our journey to Barbados—a lengthy 15-hour trip, filled with a mix of anticipation and excitement.
Upon landing, the Sandals Resort, one of Jeffrey's sponsors, became our oasis. The comforts they provided were unparalleled, ensuring our minds remained focused on the task ahead. By dawn, we found ourselves at the garage, greeted by the car—still awaiting its transformation. Time was of the essence, and as the sun set and rose, against all odds, Jeffrey's car stood wrapped and ready for the race.
DIRT_ is not merely a collection of visuals and words. It's a mosaic of Barbados, capturing the essence of its racing spirit, serene ambiance, myriad sounds, and the warmth of its community.