Weighing the Planets

Olivia Parker

Negative 1984; printed 1985

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"Bread-of-Life," near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, June 2001, William Christenberry, chromogenic print
Alligator, Mississippi, Birney Imes, gelatin silver print
Flag on pink satin depicts two green snakes wrapped around central post, known as the "poteau mitan" (the central post of a Vodou temple). Vines with dark pink and gold flowers and leaves flank the central motif, all against a circular background of gray sequins. Four corners of flag feature other ritual objects including cup, candle, rattle, and pouring container against light pink sequins. Border has black scallops with light blue beads. Central motif is associated with the "loa" Damballah.
Grandma Moses, Jimmy Lee Sudduth, paint and mud on wood board