Ceremonial (2024)

Ceremonial is an immersive installation that invites the viewer to stand in the center of its reflective surface and think of their bodies as ceremonial conduits of communication with their ancestors. The installation which combines sculpture, video, and performance, references maritime history and traditions as well as African diasporic spiritual rituals and community maypole plaiting traditions found in Barbados as well as diverse cultures around the world. 

Rooted in research into the Barbados Landship tradition, it weaves together themes of  Black self-determination, Black gathering & Joy, Shipping and trade, to honor the legacies of innovative systems of care and resilience in the face of colonial violence. 

Ceremonial is my MFA thesis capstone which was on show at the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, May 1- July 21, 2024.

Materials: Ropes, textiles, found maritime objects, used shipping sack, found glass carboy, water, bent and welded rebar, mirror carpet, video (10:17), sound.

Dimensions: 15’ (h) x 13’ w’ x 13’ (d).

Credits: 

Concept, creation and performance: Valencia James

Cinematography and videography: Jes Gallegos

Sound design: Zekarias Thompson

Music: Stefan Walcott, Wayne ‘Poonka’ Willock

Ritual Consultant: Yeye Luisah Teish

Metalwork: Teresa Smith

Graphic design: Priyanka D’Souza