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Ndebele Journey

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Ndebele Journey

November 2nd, 2008 - Washington, DC



Galleries Magazine November 2008 � Vol 36, No. 3

On the Cover

Cheryl Edwards

Ndebele Dolls

black Ink and oii o/c, 2008, 20” x 20”

Cheryl Edwards, New Exhibit Ndebele Journey, Curated by Lisa Farrell

Ndebele People - Dolls Ritual/Play

This series sets forth the concept of the use of dolls by the Ndebele

People of South Africa. Traditionally, dolls are used all over the world

for play and also used for performing rituals. The series consist of 17

artworks using a technique which combines ink and water-soluble

oils.

The works depict a combination of the Ndebele people in South

Africa in common everyday scenes, and demonstrates through

creative visuals the effect of the use of dolls for the purpose of

performing rituals. Dolls have been historically used by the Ndebele

People to enhance the possibility of marriage and childbirth. A more

widespread usage is to employ a doll to assist in a healing ritual.

Many of the dolls made by the Ndebele women are representative of

the traditional healers (Sangoma); they are notably recognized by

their dress and always accompanied by a red blanket or cloth worn

over their shoulders. This is symbolic of protection of one’s powers.

Other dolls are made of beads, which demonstrates the traditional

dress of Ndebele women.

On view at Washington Works on Paper through November 15.

3420 9th Street NE, 202- 526-8022

Wed, Friday, Saturday noon to 5:00 pm

& Thursday Evening from 4-8 pm

www.FineArt of America.com

Red line Metro Brookland/CUA 1/2 block.

This exhibit was produced by Wohlfarth Galleries

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