ARTIST STATEMENT
Amulets are small objects or pieces of jewelry worn or carried to protect the possessor from harm, disease, bad luck, or evil forces. Unlike a talisman–which is traditionally believed to actively draw in power, fortune, or specific energy–an amulet acts as a passive shield to ward against negative influences. Amulets can be made from stone, metals, clay, wood, animal parts, or coins, and are often carved or inscribed with sacred symbols, text, or prayers. Shells (Oyster) and Mother of Pearl are often regarded as symbols of fertility, protection and prosperity. They represent strength and endurance and are the symbol of duality with both masculine and feminine qualities. Those of us who wear shells, and in particular oyster shells, feel strong vibrations of peace and a connection to our inner beings along with balance and serenity. They also represent change and transformation. Oyster shells are ancient symbols of protection and resilience.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
RHONDA URDANG is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice is informed by intersectional feminism, nuclear disarmament and the peace movement. She has been strongly committed to truth-telling without fear of reprisal, gender equity, racial justice, reproductive justice and bodily autonomy, nonviolent resistance, and feminist discourse–using art to shift perspectives and possibly spark social change. Rhonda flourishes in a supportive environment that fosters creative freedom and embodies feminine energy by uplifting underrepresented womyn. She has lived in Northern Arizona spanning four decades, where stargazing has become a vital part of her life on the Colorado Plateau. Rhonda is determined to amplify diverse voices of marginalized artists whose perspectives have been historically silenced, working to foster an inclusive, diverse, supportive, and courageous artistic community. Her commitment to social justice and world peace remains unwavering as she recognizes that feminist art is a powerful tool for advocacy in the political landscape of our time.
© Rhonda Urdang