Senbi Turner

Apotropaic traditions throughout history have been reflected in objects, rituals, symbols, and myths; they have been regarded as possessing the ability to ward off evil influences. This is a collection that transforms the body into a site of protection, drawing inspiration from African and diasporic apotropaic elements. Where clothing becomes a living talisman and lesson. The collection integrates techniques such as macrame, brass metalwork, natural shibori (resist-dyeing), smocking, knitting, crocheting, block printing, and quilting. Every piece centers on a different practice, object, or myth that relates to protecting against evil influences or the evil influence itself. 

The elements represented are: 

• Haitian zombies 

• salt as protection 

• Sasabonsam (Akan folklore creature)- protecting the natural world so it protects us 

• Bells - Sound as healing armor with (Akan adinkra symbols) 

• Ancestral protection through preserving cultural memories (quilting) 

• The practitioner- Those who guide us in the ways of protection 

• Moko Jumbie- (the spirit that protects) 

What protects you?