‘The Archivist’ is a performative photographer character created by Pixel Heller to document and preserve the traditions of Caribbean carnival. Inspired by her time in Trinidad and Tobago, Pixel developed this character to highlight the often-overlooked role of the photographer as a cultural archivist. Through ‘The Archivist’, she captures the essence of carnival—its characters, rituals, and layered histories—ensuring these stories are preserved for future generations.
Rooted in the vibrant traditions of carnival, ‘The Archivist’ serves as a bridge between past and present, connecting diasporic audiences to a heritage shaped by resistance and resilience. By embodying this role, Pixel amplifies the significance of carnival as a living archive of cultural pride and community. Her work invites viewers to reflect on the power of documentation as an act of preservation and highlights the importance of honouring and understanding these traditions.
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A second installation by Pixel Heller, ‘Beyond the Body’, is located a 5-minute walk away at 95 St. Clair Avenue West.