Objects of Invocation: Ritual Takes Shape

This project explored the important relationships we have with objects and the value in making objects for ritual use. Objects ground us in prayer and ritual: they help us focus our attention and be present.

All the objects fit in the context of invocation. The vessels invoke the essence of transformation; the strands of beads invoke protection, assistance, and life’s memories; the spinning beads invoke the experience and tradition of using prayer wheels. Each series of work calls for mental, visual, and physical interaction.

The project also incorporated ethnographic research: I collected personal accounts from people around the world about engaging with objects to perform a ritual or ceremony, whether secular or sacred, communal or private.