[object of power]

assignment:

Many cultures make objects of power that are associated with or derived from their conceptions and representations of bodies. These objects (bodies themselves) often refer back to the body of the person who possesses them. They have various meanings - they may surround, adorn, protect, situate, teach, remind - but whatever their meanings they are usually substantial in character and effect.

1. Research objects of power from at least ten cultures.

2. Make a list of at least 20 things that you think have substantial power and meaning for your life at this time - scents, materials, places, photographs, mementos, objects, people. Know why and how.

3. Consider things that people empower themselves with in the 21st century. Make a list of 20 of these, and list them in best to worst order in your view.

4. Make an object of power. It should incorporate what you've learned from the objects you studied, what you know and keep that is powerful in your own life, what you think about things that people empower themselves with in today's world. The form of this object is completely your own invention. However, it should be, like the objects you studied, substantial in character and effect.

objects of power written assignment (PDF)

object of power project