Reflective Summary
My original intention for this project was to create a series of large-scale pieces. However, as my research progressed, I found that there are too many facets of Vodou to incorporate into just a few paintings. I thought it would prove more effective to create pieces depicting several prominent Lwa (deities), incorporating their associated colours and symbols in the work. I feel that I have been successful in becoming more expressive with my work; I was not confined by the use of one type of media, rather I used mixed media for a more expressive, amalgamative effect. This also reflects the view that Vodou includes, and does not exclude.
As was my original intention, I recorded songs I played on bongo drums to accompany my final pieces. I feel that these are successful as accompanying pieces of music, however one of these songs (entitled simply Vodou 3) sounds rather bare and does not contain as many elements or variation as the other songs. This was my first experience in recording and editing music and it is something I wish to continue, having gained some knowledge in using GarageBand and Audacity editing software.
From my research into misconceptions regarding Vodou, I found that fetishes (for example Vodou dolls) are not actually used in Haiti; this is a prime example of how misinformation has been assumed as the truth, including by myself. As many elements pertaining to this project are not easily represented by physical objects, I found it difficult to obtain much relevant primary research. Due to the fact I am an outsider to the religion of Vodou, I also have to make sure I’m not offending anyone with my depictions of the Lwa. However both of these points, as well as inspiration from Jesse Reno, helped contribute to the abstract nature of my work. Nevertheless, I did not experiment with compositions enough.
I initially focused largely on research regarding the history of Vodou and Haiti; although this contributed to a lack of primary research, I believe that the knowledge gained through this process has contextualised my work to a higher degree. I feel this process may be applied in a professional context as my fascination with this subject lead to enthusiasm with in-depth learning of a new subject. After leaving university I intend to gain further TEFL qualifications to teach English abroad. This project has assisted in this plan because I have gained a better understanding of another religion and culture. Playing percussion again for this project has also inspired me to continue with music after university as another creative outlet.
