Moonrise Altar
South Africa, 2023In our fast-paced lives, we rarely take the time to process the transitions
we experience. At Afrika Burn, I created the Moonrise Altar, an inclusive
space designed to honor the theme of «cycles.» I chose the moon’s cycle
as the central motif because it transcends place, culture, and religion — a universal rhythm observed by everyone.
The installation featured eight brass moons, each crafted using varied
hammering techniques; some moons were richly textured, while others were polished to a reflective mirror finish. I oxidized the brass using Himalayan pink salt, lending each piece an ancient patina with subtle pink
undertones. Although I partially removed the oxidizing agent, the process
continues over time, allowing the artwork to evolve gradually, echoing the
cycles it represents.
I positioned the Moonrise Altar against the mountainous backdrop, oriented toward the sunset to harmonize naturally with the desertlandscape. As the light changed throughout the day, the brass moons shifted colors, reflecting the sky and bringing the installation vividly to life.
Crafted from recycled wood, the altar maintained a balance between
rawness and elegance, evoking the magic and mystery of an ancient artifact unexpectedly discovered amidst the vastness of the desert.
My artistic practice is rooted in the belief that co-creating art can be deeply healing. An integral element of Moonrise Altar was an antique wooden chest sourced from a South African flea market, containing props
such as incense, candles, and other ritual objects. Visitors were invited to use these items, burning incense and engaging in personal rituals honoring life’s cycles.
Dimensions & Materials
A 600 cm x 500 cm installation made of recycled wood and brass, featuring eight 100 cm diameter brass moons, some textured, others polished and oxidized with Himalayan pink salt. Additional elements include an antique wooden chest, incense, candles, and ritual objects.