Where Flowers Now Wilhttps://issuu.com/vcustudentmedia/docs/amendme
Talisman Sculptures

Cyanotype on clay sculpture adorned with glitter
5x6in., 5x7in.

Talisman (I-II), cyanotype-on-clay sculptures in the shape of the eight-pointed star, used as talismanic symbols for protection on magic scrolls in Ethiopia-- also known as 'demon traps’. Sculptures were made with white clay topped with blue glitter. By centering themself in these talismanic forms through self portrait photography, re-claiming the ‘Queerness is demonic’ notion in broader Habesha culture, Mamo reframes them as symbols of protection, cultural identity, and pride as a Queer Ethiopian.