The name of this figure is Ketzia, meaning “confident.” Ketzia is known to her community as one who inspires others to recognize and claim their gifts and use them in a manner that embraces and enables others to do likewise. Ketzia knows the greatest gift one can give to another is the gift of self. which strengthens and empowers others to do the same.

SCULPTURE FIGURES

Spirit Women

Guardians of the Sacred
Artist: Barbara Kennison, PhD

Each soft sculpture is an original and has been given a name along with the description of their special role as guardian. An example would be a sculpture that has been given the name, Sofia (goddess of wisdom), who has the role of Secret Keeper. The head of each sculpture is made of clay that has been oven fired. The facial features convey the age of the figure, such as a young woman, mother, infant and elder. Some of the figures have a feature that permits attaching to a wall while others are freestanding. The sculptures range in height from 12 to 16 inches and are approximately 6 to 8 inches at their widest point. The underbody of the figure is comprised of a wool casing and stuffed wool roving. Covering the body of each figure are varying types of fabric remnants. These remnants reveal a variation of colors, sizes, textures and densities which serve to provide depth and volume, suggesting movement in the garment of each figure. Each soft sculpture is adorned with special accents revealing the character of the figure. The sculptures are made by hand and without the aid of machine.

Kame means “adored royalty.” Kame is descended from royalty. She is aware of her role in the community. She is regal in her dress and the manner in which she carries herself. She is somewhat separate from the members and is known for her tenderness and blessings. She honors others with her presence and never places herself above others.

The name of this figure is Cerie, meaning “sincere.” Cerie is a person who is single-minded in all that she does. Others watch her with loving eyes as she goes about her daily duties of assisting others in various ways. She is never self-seeking as she is well aware that to act in this manner does not help her or others. It only leads to destruction and alienation. It is sincerity that binds others to her and thus everyone benefits from her actions.