‘Ritual’ exemplifies my exploration of biology, archaeology, and epistemology in my practice. The sculpture celebrates the mysticism of rocks, and rock sites in the UK which permeate our ancestral spiritual past and collective consciousness.

‘Ritual’s’ composition was inspired from my visits to various stone circles across Wales and the Peak District, both small and megalithic structures, which continue to spark a fascination with their intended purpose, much of which remains debated among archaeologists and antiquarians. Although little is known about the specific events that took place, it is this deep mystery and the loss of information that inspired the creation of the sculpture. The activities associated with these rituals are shrouded in mystery, often coloured by folklore, legends, and representations in films and popular culture that link them to death, the devil, and witches. My use of the spikes mimics the pins and needles thought to have been used in witchcraft for casting both protective and hexing spells.

The colours in the work are my natural handmade flower pigments, which are layered throughout the resin. The act of sprinkling the flower pigment mimics the tradition of throwing flower petals during a ritual ceremony. Roses, in particular, hold multiple meanings in witchcraft and modern spell-making. The pattern created by the white wool suggests ripples in water, topography, or meditative practices like sand art from the East. Within my art practice, I have an appreciation for, and an unconscious blurring of boundaries between, the West and East, both of which share a common language of symbols in the physical and spiritual realms.