The Theme
This collection is an exploration and documentation of the two dominant environments that exist within this adjacent world: the surface dwellers and the underground elites. These two factions diverge in their philosophical beliefs, forged by a history of silence and distrust that has continued to fuel this rivalry for many years. In an attempt to bring these two societies together, this exhibit examines the interaction between undesirable, spiritual materials, and profane objects by the individual and reactionary groups within our society. Through a chronological retelling of the history of these objects’ origins, their use and purpose are exhibited to the best of our understanding, with equal respect paid to both cultures in an attempt to “bridge the gap” of this age-old divide. These objects range from pre-history creation to modern replicative representations of traditional spiritual items and amulets. We are all a product of the current environment, and by displaying pieces of both of these groups together, we aim to show a path of co-existence and acceptance of both philosophies.
The Undesirables
These objects are the cataclysms and the remnants of our past society, the destroyers and the left behind. These items are glimpses into the shared history of every culture that has survived, whether you are a surface dweller or from the underground elite, these objects are all of our origin stories. Some may view these items as waste, without further use, but as time has gone on, people have found ways to use these objects to continue living. These objects are innately made of materials that can be used in several contexts. As you look at these objects, think of how they have wasted since the age of their prime and their mystery in this timeline.
- Katelyn Allen
The Individual Solutions
We have collectively grouped these pieces under the label of Individual Solutions; this is both, on an average level of comprehension, the most accurate level of understanding we can currently decipher & achieve as far as their intended use (although we hope that the depths of these artifacts will likely be more revealed over time), and all of the pieces in this category generally work within this theme- this idea of an individual user working with the technology for the sake of greater understanding of themselves or the world around them, either providing an immediate remedy or offering peace of mind. The Retrieved Artifacts of ‘Individual Solutions’ are as follows: The Protection Stones, “KNOCK ON WOOD” reassuring sign, Original/Prototype Dog Tag Ecto Receiver, and the Final Ecto Adapter & Receiver.
- Joe Franklin
The use and purpose of these objects are more defined in comparison to their predecessors, and are considered to be the widely understood individual solutions to problems faced in both the surface dwelling and underground societies. These objects were presented from one group to another in order to foster a connection between the surface and underground people, and the use and widespread dissemination of these objects would support the cooperative solutions that were presented to each community by the other. This would promote a positive relationship between the two communities despite their perceived differences. A combination of meditative and protective wearable amulets, these objects would be adorned in order to gain the full capacity of their functionality by the wearer.
- Samuel Walinsky
The Worldly Solutions
Nothing in the world is singular, solved with a wave of the hand. There are no single issues, only complexities. Revolution, collective liberation, requires collaboration. We present six technologies— stretching towards communal health, protection, shadow work/individuation, immersive visionary futures, and Materia for every step of the journey. A new world for healing the present; where futures can change paradigms, pivot a new orientation towards possibilities. Incorporating all six senses, even beyond— births a compilation with an endless shuffle. Something for your ears, your eyes, behind them, in your mind, your dreams, your active imagination, keeping what is harmful away, while protecting some of the most crucial things for individual and collective liberation—protection, imagination, sensation, care, discernment.
- Natalie Earnhart
The Reflections
To wrap up the museum experience shared between both the underground and surface dwellers, all are invited to interact or observe objects that represent and provoke personal inward cogitation. Historically, participation in society has ebbed and flowed between individualistic thinking or collectivism. Here, a celebration of the effects one singular entity may have on a larger scale is brought to the forefront to summon appreciation of where unification both exists and lacks. A reminder of self and deep reflection of personal impact recenters the motivation to do better for all.
- Ilona Kovacs
The Gallery & Ritual Guidelines