"Totems and Talismens"

by

"Women in Orbit"

The making of objects that evoke or contain special power, either in the spiritual or physical world is an ancient ritual of humankind, occurring for the last sixty thousand years according to the archeological record. Artifacts which were buried deep in the earth and since recovered, reveal that making totems and talismans is an ancient human ceremonial tradition. The very earliest finds are attributed to women.

This current exhibition does not tout itself as an attempt to replicate those ancient images. Rather it is a modern interpretation that gives voice to the inner creativity of the artists who have participated, in ways that echo or mirror this ancient tradition of human _expression.

These objects are marked or created using signs, words, symbols or earth made materials that in their constellation evoke meaning. This may be spiritual, political, or simply from the joy of creating something personal and intimate.

Since earliest times, people have carried objects of special power and meaning to help them in their daily lives. These exhibited images do not lend themselves to personal adornment or carrying. They do however represent a process of evoking thoughtful, sensitive moments in daily life that may provoke change. within the artist or the viewer. Whatever the item or its intended use, they are considered the focus of divine energy and power.

The artists represented in this exhibit are:

Beth Beurkens   Wesley Cook

Jill Gardner   Christine Gallegos

  Sarjana Gaydos Joyce Haban

Anne Kinkade    Sabine Kent

Cathy Valentine   Gwen Stone

Lynn Young   Janet Curti Haines

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This creative artwork will be shown at Changes Art Gallery May 12-June