The Association for the Study of Women and Mythology
General ASWM news and organizational updates
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.
Continue reading “Review: Mami Wata, Arts for Water Goddesses”
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We began as a handful of scholars and artists, many from the Midwest, who first met in 2002 to discuss our work in mythology and goddess studies. The group grew over time and after a few years we concluded that the best way to advance such scholarship was to form our own organization.
From the start we wanted to create a circle within which women and men with a scholarly passion for sacred myths about women meet—regardless of their “day jobs” or geographic locations. The response to our conferences and symposia has been gratifying; we have found scholars around the world who share the need for community and support.
At present, the kinds of women (and some brave men!) who have joined ASWM include those who:
And this is only the beginning. In ASWM, goddess scholars and teachers interact with artists, writers, ritualists—people on all creative paths—to bring myths and images to life for modern women. We believe that we all have much to say to one another, and that sharing ideas and resources strengthens the work we do.
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.
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