Current Search: Ecology--Philosophy (x)
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Title
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The Vessel: The Connection of Pottery and Earth Consciousness.
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Creator
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Turnbull, Maltiben Dave, Caputi, Jane, Florida Atlantic University
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Abstract/Description
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The Vessel: The Connection o f Pottery and Earth Consciousness, addresses the topic of Earth Consciousness through an exploration of the crafting and use of clay vessels among three indigenous cultures, from parts of the Southwest United States, and those from parts of India and Africa. Earth Consciousness is the awareness that the Earth is a conscious living being and that one is connected to the Earth through every cycle of one’s life. Myths of creation describing the existence of clay and...
Show moreThe Vessel: The Connection o f Pottery and Earth Consciousness, addresses the topic of Earth Consciousness through an exploration of the crafting and use of clay vessels among three indigenous cultures, from parts of the Southwest United States, and those from parts of India and Africa. Earth Consciousness is the awareness that the Earth is a conscious living being and that one is connected to the Earth through every cycle of one’s life. Myths of creation describing the existence of clay and pottery before the origin of human beings are present in these cultures, some of who also believe that they were created out of clay. Thereby, their connection to the Earth, strengthened by this belief, is deep and it is exhibited through the use of clay vessels in ritual ceremonies and daily activities. The potters in these cultures express their realization of clay as a gift of the Earth, whom they conceptualize as Mother Earth, in the ceremonies they perform prior to collecting clay, crafting the vessels, and firing them. Among contemporary ceramists, one also finds works meant to remind the viewers of their physical, spiritual, and political connection to the Earth. In my dissertation, I explore the works of four such ceramists, Sadashi Inuzuka, Gabrielle Koch, Joseph Lonewolf, and Denise Romecki. I also discussed the philosophy behind my own artwork, which I have created as part of requirement for graduation and exhibited at the university galleries. This dissertation clarifies my concepts of Earth Consciousness bringing attention to the urgent need for individual action in the form of personal behavioral change and worldview towards the Earth and other living beings. My ideas are derived from various sources including indigenous spirituality, Hinduism, and Buddhism. My hope is that the words of this dissertation and the ceramic work I am presenting will stir in the reader and the viewer a desire to strengthen their relationship to the Earth. It is my belief that individual action can be a powerful tool in countering further destruction of the planet.
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Date Issued
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2007
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000998
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Subject Headings
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Pottery--Symbolism, Human ecology--Religious aspects, Environmental ethics, Ecology--Philosophy
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Format
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Document (PDF)
