Thursday 20 December – Scary Bears

(well, face-masks were always a bit scary to me…
they may have different connotations for other people!)

Bolivia

Artist: Rene Cadena Ayala

In Bolivia, farming and mining still play a significant role. In our mining areas resides a creature called Supay in my native language Aymara or Diablo in Spanish. This devilish creature is the Lord of the underworld. Where "EI Tio" lives are the treasures we human beings are digging for. Yet the Lord of the underworld watches over these treasures and demands sacrifices for robbing his riches. Yet “El Tio“ also has a good side: He gives lavishly to those who offer sacrifices to him. A particularly beautiful form of worship is the dance of the Diablada "Supay Thokhorinaka". The dance originates in the mining town Oruro and is danced there during the carnival. The dancers masked as devils of the Andes jump and spin around with an immense zest for life. As my bear is equally full of life, I let him dance the Diablada.

 

Nigeria

Artist: Aniama Kenneth Dazaa

“The word OMEKAGU in Nigerian language (Igbo) means Brave Man or Woman. OMEKAGU has two roles to play: a dancer and a warrior.

I used my bear to remind us of the origin (ROOTS) of Cultur and Tradition (Identity) of Nigeria in particular and Africa in general. Cultur and Tradition is the only thing that unifies us, but has been more and more forgotten by today's people. Are you aware that the way to the Garden of Eden is not easy to trace anymore!

My bear represents Unity, which is shown by the mixed colours. It represents Peace, which comes through its dances and dramas. It portrays freedom and liberty obtained through braveness. And it teaches love through respect, tolerance and understanding.”

 

 El Salvador

(Spanish: República de El Salvador, literally 'Republic of The Savior') is the smallest and the most densely populated country in Central America.

Artist: René Chacón

“the jaguar was worshipped as a God in the Central American countries and cultures, including the Maya and the Pipiles. He was fiery and was mystified because of its immense strength and fascination. The transformation from jaguar to human being - human being into jaguar remained a privilege of some priests. Nowadays man has become a threat for the jaguar and it seems to have been bereft of its strength. For me, however, the fascination remains alive.”