Hispanic Art Scene Art Blog
El Dia de Ojo New Series by Sam Kirk
by hispanic_arts , October 11, 2011—12:00 AM
El Dia de Ojo
Enjoy a cultural cocktail this season, one with very strong spirits mixed in paint and poured over canvas. The El Dia de Ojo series from artist sam.kirk experiments with the concept of two Latin American traditions. The skeletons of El Dia de los Muertos combined with the superstition of Mal de Ojo (the evil eye). Raised in a multicultural household, Sam Kirk was never immersed in just one ethnic tradition. Through oral histories passed down by generations of friends and family members she became fascinated by Mexican traditions and superstitions. The artist's education about her cultures led to their celebration, which manifests itself in her El Dia De Ojo series.
El Dia De Ojo is that artist's interpretation of the process in which Mal de Ojo is given and received. Combining the traditional Halloween practices she participated in as a child with the Mexican superstition, Kirk created the character Ojero.
"Ojero, represents the spirits that help the living deliver Mal de Ojo to their intended recipients."
On this day, Ojeros make their way out into the world to hypnotize as many innocent people as they can. Delivering El Ojo, causing mischief, trouble and affliction. It is a game for them, complete with costumes, dancing and debauchery.
This time of year, when spirits are believed to be more present and aware than ever, El Dia De Ojo takes Mexican tradition and mixes it to create a celebration that translates across cultures.
Sam Kirk's El Dia de Ojo pieces are available at the Elephant Room, 704 S. Wabash in Chicago. The series will also be available at TurningArt.com this winter.
Website, http://www.iamsamkirk.com/ Contact, sam@iamsamkirk.com
Shelley Whiting ( homepage )
01/24/2012 * 21:07:00
Your art is very fun and funky. I love the bright colors and colorful skeletons. Beautiful and charming work.