Rituals

In 2016, I created an eight-pointed papier mâché sculpture that could contain the writings of people offered intentionally for this work. The purpose was to create interactive artwork on Orcas Island that was inclusive and embracing of all cultures.  I used the native crow as a source for the image, transposed sculpturally onto the star. Then added branches, wheat, and local rosemary and sage to flesh out the object—with the intention that these elements would become part of the ceremonial fire when the object was to be ignited. A large smudge effigy. 

People were invited at various locations in the community to add their thoughts, and anything they wished to share, privately or not, fastened to the art. Collectively, these offerings served as a community smudge. The object was placed at two of the main locales where people  gather: Enzo’s, a coffee house open on all holidays, and, Roses Bakery Cafe, a harbinger of the Slow Food movement.  Patrons from both locations participated. Unfortunately, neither of these destinations exist as of 2022.

The effigy was also situated outside of the performance area for a multi-media event at the Orcas Center called Return of the Sun, which featured technological lighting, stage wizardry, and music by the Seastars to celebrate the Winter Solstice.

From there, the effigy traveled to Moran State Park where it was lit near the Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day.  Serendipitously, this annual event was initiated by a native Cedar, which composed the pyre, is highly respected and honored by Coastal Salish Peoples.

Aspects of this participatory art relate to the Northern European Wickerman—effigies that burn on New Year’s Eve—and Fennoscandian bonfire traditions on the Winter and Summer Solstice—part of my ancestral roots which I have observed in Finland.

The work was created at my studio, SOUL artspace, with assists from Victor Hartney, Travis Baker, Cate Kelly and Greg Stevenson. 

I create these types of interactive installations from time to time. They are documented in our local community, as well as in other countries. My work is all self-financed, including inviting regarded local and international artists to participate.

John Raymond Berry / Artist Statement 2022
Rituals and Installation
Non-monetized Public Art and Community
Orcas Island and Elsewhere