Full Description
The current practice of the cult of María Lionza is one of the most important and yet unexplored religious practices in Venezuela. Based on long-term fieldwork, this book explores the role of images and visual culture within the cult. By adopting a relational approach, A Goddess in Motion shows how the innumerable images of this goddess—represented as an Indian, white or mestizo woman—move constantly from objects to bodies, from bodies to dreams, and from the religion domain to the art world. In short, this book is a fascinating study that sheds light on the role of visual creativity in contemporary religious manifestations.
Contents
List of Figures
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter 1. Who is María Lionza?
Chapter 2. The cult of María Lionza
Chapter 3. The ritual image
Chapter 4. Between Art and Religion
Chapter 5. Bodies, Dreams and Apparitions
Chapter 6. A Globalized Goddess
Chapter 7. A Network of Images
Conclusions
Bibliography
Index
