Nkondi or Nkonde nail fetishes of Kongo, were protective figures used by individuals, families, or communities to prevent or cure illnesses, repel evil deeds, as well as to decide arguments and to solemnize contracts. A nail would be driven into the wooden statue every time an adverse influence would become apparent. Basically, they kept the bad Mojo away. (As an interesting side note: it’s believed that this tradition was brought to Haiti during the slave trade and evolved into the Voodoo doll).

This class will be exploring these traditional forms and adding a bit of contemporary kitsch. We’ll be making found-object versions of Nail Fetishes that students can drive protective nails into through the years...the difference is, we’ll be using bowling pins as the base. We’ll combine assemblage, collage, and painting to adorn these figures.

Don’t let the bad spirits...STRIKE. (I know, bad joke).

Supply List (printable) .