HamSA I
Hand cut Tyvek, plastic rods
49” X 84”
The hamsa symbol, also referred to as the "Hand of Fatima" in Islamic faiths, or the "Hand of Miriam" in Judaism, has been used in tattooing and spiritual practices to symbolize and invoke feminine power throughout the ages. Cut paper is a folk craft, one which you can find in every culture over the world. Cut paper, like storytelling, is a human art, shared by everyone and crossing borders and cultures. This work contains universal elements in its visual representation of animals, utilizing symmetry as said to underline the balance of creation. This work is about our human struggle for harmony and balance. Even though this work is inspired by traditional Jewish paper cuts, it utilizes widespread visual symbols appearing in ancient Mediterranean civilizations, representing life, death, resurrection, maternal attributes, and the life cycle.
