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To Bear and not to Own, (or the Lovers), 2024 (in progress)

 handcarved minerals, leather, birch, shell containers

To bear and not to own;
to act and not lay claim;
to do the work and let it go. for just letting it go
is what makes it stay.
*Soul Food, Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu, translated by Ursula K. Le Guin


Le Guin, in her book ‘The Carrier Bag Theory of Fiction’ is mentioning a theory where the narrative of human evolution is shaped by a container, instead of a weapon, which “cannot be characterised
either as conflict or as harmony, since its purpose is neither resolution nor stasis but continuing process.” A collection of minerals, stones and gemstones handcarved into sharpness, often also shaped to fit a specific palm or finger, acting as something between a weapon or an amulet. Minerals are either collected from a specific site or acquired through geologists, selected for their colors and patterns, as well as their so-called healing/protecting properties.
sheltering with my prong ring knife, handcarved agate embracing with my nails pocket knife, handcarved selenite leather, reflective tape, polyester zipper, pvc tape.

An interplay between attacking and defending, the amulets’ pointy edges could potentially pierce, scratch or cut. Each amulet is connected to a container whose shape is defined by its mission to
protect and embrace the sharp edges of the mineral, while mimicking its patterns, and colors, making them an odd pair with a strong bond.

 

 © 2025  Irene Ragusini

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