“I like to think myself as insignificant sometimes” I recently watch a video that started saying that and I agree, there is actually certain beauty in embracing insignificance. Especially when we consider our place in the grand spectrum of existence.
When we look at the amazing creatures that once walk the earth, like the recently 7,5 meter anaconda found in the jungles of Latin America. It reminded me of the “Yacumama”, a myth from the Peruvian Amazon that I really enjoy and get lots of inspiration from. As I delved into the legend, I couldn’t help to be awed at its relevance and potencial truths.
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“The Yacumama” a.k.a “Mother of the Waters” is the guardian of the rivers, a timid but respected being that ensures the balance and purity of the river ecosystem. This tales embodies a universal archetype found in cultures across the world. It's a reminder of our interconnectedness. Transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. From Masana, the serpent goddess of India symbolizing fertility and prosperity, to the Yacumama herself, these ancient stories speak to a shared human experience rooted in the natural world.
Yet, despite our common origins and shared reverence for nature, throughout history, we’ve focused too much on what differentiates us- things like gender, skin color, or religion- instead of realizing how connected we really are. Our ancestors knew the importance of respecting nature. They worshipped the sun, the stars, the earth and specially water. Perhaps it's time we redirect our attention to that. Perhaps we are in time. I like to think we are, even though we have built a system that’s is clearly leading to resource scarcity. Crazy how the people in power prioritize fighting for land rather than start creating laws to protect nature and the people.
My fascination with the Yacumama legend even inspired my ceramic series called “Atravesar”. In this series, I used curves reminiscent of the path of an anaconda, echoing the sinuous contours found in the natural flow of rivers. Though this forms, I aimed to map the unseen and reveal hidden connections, symbolizing the subtle but continuous interaction present in our surroundings. “Atraveasar” serves as a visual exploration of the overlook interconnectivity within the spaces we inhabit or contain.
I hold the believe that in understanding our smallness, we find freedom from the burdens of ego. I want to bring the attention towards not only the appearance of things but also their significance of existence. We are tiny parts of a vast universe, but what we do matters. Let's be mindful of our impact, even if small.
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