This artwork represents the sensational, rhythmic energy of the steelpan. The steelpan is the only and newest instrument created within the twentieth century in Trinidad and Tobago by Afro-Trinidadians. The instrument was created by enslaved Africans — from West and Central Africa predominantly — during the transatlantic slave trade in the 1700s.
The sounds of rebellion came from old oil drums, tin pans, and a wide variety of pieces of metals when the abolishment of slavery came into effect on August 1, 1834. The bottom of the metal drums used were capable of making pitches mimicking that of other instruments leading to the gradual development of the steelpan today, where all types of music can be played and enjoyed by any and everyone. The instrument will always represent the resistance and resilience during the carnival against the colonial powers in Trinidad and Tobago.
The kaleidoscopic setting of bold colours represents the sensation and energetic vibrations of joy that pan brings the player and the listener. All colours of the rainbow are blended with each other to show how the energy is spread to create joy. The arrangement shows how a typical steelband orchestra is arranged with many players playing different types of steel pans. The faceless personas men and women represent how anyone — from the African continent and its diasporas to even those beyond — can enjoy the musical euphoria together with the instrument.
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