Review: Mami Wata, Arts for Water Goddesses

Mami Wata circus poster

What do Ganesh, Oshun, Saint Martha, snake charmers and mermaids have in common?  They are all featured elements in the iconography of Mami Wata, the African/Caribbean great goddess of waters.  And they are all well represented in the magnificent art exhibit that bears her name.  This exhibit is on its way to the Smithsonian in April, 2009.

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The Bee Goddess and ASWM

This gold plaque from Rhodes (7th Century BCE) portrays a powerful goddess of the natural world.  Myths and reality converge in the mysteries of bees.  The facts of their life cycles and behaviors provide the basis for stories of communication, prophecy, healing, and rebirth.  The founders of ASWM have chosen this image to represent the rich harvest to be gathered when scholars collaborate and communicate to promote understanding of women’s ancient myths.  The Bronze Age bee goddess also reminds us of our essential connection with the stories of all creatures, and our need to ensure their continued survival.

Bee Goddess of Rhodes