Courir, David Simpson, FLEE Project

Every year, as Ash Wednesday approaches, rural communities in Southwest Louisiana come alive with Mardi Gras "Courir" – spirited runs where costumed revellers embark on a captivating journey.

Native Lousianian David Simpson, through his lens, captures the enchanting Mardi Gras in a photographic narrative, as they go from house to house, singing, dancing, and begging for ingredients to create a communal "gumbo" feast.

The rich symbolism behind the costumes, from high-pointed conical hats parodying noble headdresses to handmade masks concealing identities with exaggerated facial features here, is a passionate portrayal of roles that mock authority, a tradition deeply rooted in Cajun and Creole heritages in a compiled archival work by David Simpson spanning over thirty years.

Amidst the festive quest and perhaps fueled by a bit of alcohol, the "Mardi Gras" participants find liberation from the restraints of everyday life, creating a gaudy pageant that is both raucous and jubilant based on rural traditions dating back to medieval times.
This photography work stands as a homage to their time-honoured tradition.