World of Clay

Eli Whitney Museum

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Animal Magic

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2017 Summer Program

In the ancient world, native people had a strong belief in magic, and animals often represented deities, or were believed to have divine super powers. These animal shaped (or zoomorphic) objects where either meant for daily use or decoration, and in many cases were believed to carry the supernatural energy of the creature they represented and thus protected the carrier or owner.

In the case of masks, the idea was to transform the user into a new character either as a game or as a religious ritual. This week, inspired by your favorite animals and pieces from ancient cultures around the world, you will create your own magical objects and toys, through the use of different ceramic techniques.


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