Protection art

Displaying protection symbols in our homes, like a Cross, a Nazar, an Ankh or any kind of religious or spiritual “protection art” isn’t a new thing, in fact it isn’t a New Age thing either. It is as old as civilization itself, and perhaps just as ingrained in our genetic makeup as language, dancing or any kind of creative expression we cultivated and nurtured in ourselves during our evolution. 

I often wonder if we are really a worshiping species? Is some kind of spirituality predetermined for us as individuals? Even those who say they don’t believe in any such thing as God believe in something, even if they believe in one less God than I do. 

In any case, I’m a “multi purpose believer", I guess. That means, I do have quite a fascination with religious symbology and ancient symbols, in theology, and in world religions; more so in some than in others, but you get my meaning. 

Nazars have been around for some time, with their history going back as far as ancient Egypt. The most well known among people is the classic blue version, and the blue nazar glass bead that is strongly associated with Turkey and the East Mediterranean. 

They said to ward off negativity, bad luck, and ill will. Now, if that isn’t enough from this humble amulet, each colour is associated with specific areas of life and offer extra protection specific to those. What a wonderful thing, if you ask me. 

Some months ago I saw a Nazar chart depicting various colours claiming special properties  and I got inspired. It became a side quest and in a blink of an eye “The Nine Nazars” were born. 

Is it museum worthy? Nahhh… of course it isn’t. Do I intend to let go of it? Also no. 

The sole purpose of my home studio Nazar installation was purely  to bring something culturally and spiritually meaningful into my home as an artist. To spend some time with creative self expression, and to learn a bit more about this particular symbol. And it served just that superbly. 

I also have a Rosary, a Cross, a statue of Buddha as well as some Feng Shui trinkets displayed and they all live together like the Teachings of Buddha, The Bhagavad Gita and the Holy Bible on the shelf, very peacefully.