UKCCA 50th Anniversary Exhibition: Luton Carnival Headwear

Luton’s International Carnival is celebrating its 50th year on Sunday 24th May. As part of the celebrations, an exhibition at Wardown House, Museum & Gallery showcases nine striking Carnival headpieces created by five of the UK Centre for Carnival Arts (UKCCA) leading Design Associates. This exhibition is co-produced with UKCCA (supported by Luton Rising).

Artists Melissa Simon‑Hartman, Stephen Hoyte, Sarah Salim, Chauntier Irish‑Downes, and Ruth Reid present a vibrant collection of Carnival costume headpieces as diverse and distinctive as their individual practices.

Their work showcases combines new, repurposed, and recycled materials. Coloured feathers, iridescent sequins, discarded clothing, and reclaimed rope sit alongside wrapped wire, concealing hours of intricate wire‑bending techniques. These elements reflect African Caribbean heritage and the global tradition of “making old new.”

The artists invite you to create your own narrative and use their work as a gateway to connect with Carnival virtually, through imagination, heritage, and celebration.