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Altars of Passage - Senior MFA Thesis, 2006-07

Inspired both by Joseph Campbell and a traveling show of New Mexican Santos figures, these hand carved, hand painted wooden altars were developed to recognize the importance of Rites of Passage, especially in todays society. Through their imagery, I highlighted three moments in my life where I emerged as someone different, showing the viewer that these instances exist if we choose to regonize and respect them.

The first altar, Titled the Carnal Altar, represents a physical affection done to the body in order to remove oneself from the safety of childhood. The second, the Emotional Altar, depicts an age-imposed goal beset by my parents- my first concert. Thirdly lies the Responsible Altar. It commemorates my first vacation without my parents. Again, it is a step into adulthood.

For the thesis, click here.

 

Spinal Corsette- 2007

This piece was a preemptive foray into my current mythological work. It began when I read that many Spartans believed that snake were born form the spines of sinners after burial. I imagined what it would be like to wear a garment that proved your innocence.

 

Instruments of Self Realization - 2005-06

These peices were developed to keep onself focused on the state of their body, much to the same effect of monastic vests made of hair. The shape that reoccurs came to be a symbol used throughout fine art.

 

 



©2009 nicholas ribera

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