Uruguay Field Notes: Street Parades

One of the many Carnival floats to take part in the parade

Bits of paper and styrofoam debris left behind by kids

who throw the foam in the air as the floats pass

One of the many street vendors that continuously walk by offering food, drinks,

ready cut foam, foam in spray cans and masks

An interesting shop-front along Av.18 de Julio

View of office buildings along Av.18 de Julio

I have been in Montevideo Uruguay for the past 2 months. I've been incredibly lucky to be able to spend some time thinking about my art practice, developing new work and gather research for my thesis. Although I have come back to Uruguay before, this is the first time since I was little that I've been able to stay during January and February to see the Carnival street parades. Uruguay has the longest Carnival season of any of the South American countries including Rio in Brazil. The photos above were taken along the main street (Avenida 18 de Julio) in Montevideo on the day of the 'Desfile', a street parade marking the start of the competition for best carnival performers. There's an amazing atmosphere here this time of year. I've been totally seduced by the summer heat, brilliant sunsets and the vibrancy of the Carnival.