Art of Celebration at the National Carnivals Museum

The Art of Celebration exhibition by photographer Darren Smith opened on May 3rd at the National Carnival Museum (Oeteldonks Gemintemuzejum) in Den Bosch, marking the official start of the Mayflies book tour. The exhibition runs throughout the summer, showcasing a powerful selection from Smith’s extensive photographic archive.

The show featured images drawn from thousands of portraits taken over more than a decade, documenting ritual celebrations around the world. Smith’s work explores the universal human drive to gather, transform, and express.

“Darren Smith has captured the essence of the person behind ritual celebrations in beautiful images, portraying typical traditions that manifest in costumes, masquerades, dance and music. His unparalleled digital recordings offer a glimpse into customs and practices from thirty-four ritual events in twelve countries.”
— Rob van de Laar, curator

The opening was a festive gathering of friends, collaborators, and carnival enthusiasts from across the Netherlands and beyond, with drinks by Harry Cider and a shared spirit of joy and connection. The atmosphere reflected the energy at the heart of Smith’s photographs—a celebration of culture, community, and creativity.

Visit the museum website to learn more.