Yard Mas names Anna-Lisa Guthrie as creative director

Yard Mas Carnival, Jamaica's fastest-growing Carnival band celebrated for its fusion of national pride and artistic innovation, has announced that Anna-Lisa Guthrie will serve as creative director for the 2026 season.

The appointment comes just weeks ahead of the band's official launch in late November 2025, which is expected to unveil a new chapter in the Yard Mas story -- one defined by deeper artistic expression, inclusivity, and authentic Jamaican creativity.

A multidisciplinary artist renowned for her inventive approach to costume design and visual storytelling, Guthrie's addition to the Yard Mas leadership team reflects the band's continued mission to spotlight homegrown talent on the international carnival scene.

Andrew Bellamy, managing director of Yard Mas Carnival, praised the appointment and expressed confidence in Guthrie's ability to elevate the brand's creative identity.

"Yard Mas has always pride itself on empowering Jamaicans, especially those who excel within our local creative industry," Bellamy said.

"We are proud and confident that her creative direction will guide and 'wow' our 2026 theme, and without a doubt, her personal designs will also excite and satisfy masqueraders," he added.

Already immersed in the creative process, Guthrie said she is eager to bring her artistic vision to life through the Yard Mas platform.

"I designed for the band for the first time this year, but I've worked with the members in various capacities in the past, and I can't wait for the 'Yardies' to see what our slate of designers have created for 2026," she said.

Public relations director Dania Beckford also welcomed Guthrie's appointment, describing her as a visionary leader poised to redefine the creative scope of the brand.

"Anna brings a rare combination of design depth, talent, and creative clarity to Yard Mas," Beckford said.

"We all know she can use any material to design, and with her at the helm guiding our design team with inclusivity and innovation, we're stepping boldly into a new era of Jamaican-made carnival excellence."