Some never-before-seen images of Guyana, past and present are on show at the Umana Yana exhibited by photographer and renowned costume band designer Godfrey Chin.
The exhibition, which runs into Mashramani, is a partnership effort between Chin and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in the lead-up to Guyana’s 40th Republic Anniversary celebrations.
Among the exhibits are pictures that reflect the themes: “From whence we came” the “Garden City,” “Festivals,” “Mash,” and “Guyana’s Hinterland,” among others.
The exhibition opened in the presence of several of Chin’s colleagues from as far as boyhood days. Among them were economist Ian McDonald, Deputy General Manager of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company(GT&T) Terry Holder, Chris Fernandes of Fernandes Shipping and advertising entrepreneur Vic Insanally.
Explaining the background to the exhibition, Chin said the inspiration was drawn from advice by friends to write a book about Guyana.
Following on the advice, Chin in December 2000 started writing for his book “Nostalgia – Golden Moments of Guyana 1940 to 1980.” In the process, he compiled a series of photographs and later developed a love for photography.
At the Umana Yana, several of those who congratulated Chin for a job well done made a public appeal for all to pay a visit noting that “an opportunity like this shouldn’t be missed.”
GT&T’s Terry Holder said he was surprised and pleased to see photos past and present about the telephone company and considered it a worthwhile promotion.
Chin believes that the exhibition will also be of benefit to school children and said he is willing to dedicate some of his time to meet with them during the period of the exhibition.
Chin held the band-of-the-year title for several years in the 1960s and 1970s during Mashramani costume and float parade competitions. Among his winning creations were “Birth of a nation”, “Helen of Troy”, “Guyana Spectacular”, “One for All, All for One”, “Birth of a Nation”,  and “The History of Aviation.”
“Helen of Troy,” designed by Chin in 1961, was his first mega production and it was followed by the “Egyptian Broach” costume which was worn by Evadne Gravesande, the first Independence Carnival Queen in 1968.
“Birth of a Nation” was considered the most spectacular as it was highlighted by a mass of glittering colours showcasing the indigenous concept.
Godfrey Chin, said Guyana’s Republic status had brought out the true potential of Guyanese designers. (GINA)