Big Chief Victor Harris, Spirit of Fi Yi Yi Works On His 2012 Mardi Gras Indian Suit: Photos

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For many, Mardi Gras day is the culmination of 2 weeks of straight partying. For others, it’s the culmination of the entire Carnival season since Twelfth Night. But for the Mardi Gras Indians, Fat Tuesday wraps up an entire year of sewing a new suit of beads, feathers, and jewels. This year, photographer Kim Welsh was invited into the home of Big Chief Victor Harris, Spirit of Fi Yi Yi of the Mandingo Warriors to observe and photograph him during a day of sewing and other work on his 48th suit. Harris’ 2012 Mardi Gras Indian suit is dedicated to the memory of his fellow Mandingo Warrior Collins “Coach” Lewis, who passed away in August this past year.

All photos were taken by Kim Welsh.