June at the Purse Building:

Numero 45 by Teodoro Estrada

Numero 45 examines the Mestizo and Western cultures while focusing on spiritual and physical healing. In Mestizo belief, one uses any one of several ways to heal the spirit; from curanderismo or home remedies to asking for divine intervention. In healing the spirit, one may choose to have a spiritual cleansing. Cleansing is usually executed by an elder person, perhaps a grandmother or someone with the wisdom and/or powers of healing. The body is swept with small branches to rid it of negative energy. Prayer is used for divine intervention and a candle for replenishing energy, protection, and /or, to thank any one of your protectors.

Western medicine is todays means/preference of healing the physical self. Although western medicine sometimes has favorable results, Mestizo medicine equals and/or rivals western medicine. Mother Earth is the base for Mestizo medicine and healing, and hierbas are the source of the power. A warm cup of mansanilla/camomile tea will settle your stomach and dissipate gases in the digestive track. Herbs, whole foods, plants, animals, lotions etc, are used in combinations or concoctions in similar ways to western medicine. Centuries of testimonials attest to the healing powers.

Numero 45 references the deer character in the Mexican Loteria (Mexican Bingo) and Xamal (a myth); the reincarnation of a deer to a boy. Having witnessed the butchering of many deer at an early age, and having experienced unusual sensations (perhaps the spirits), this image comes to light at a time of crisis and need for an answer; a past identity; a soul seeking a higher level... Numero 45 also references a premonition number stage of my life. In doing life regressions, I discovered my previous life ended at age 15, in 1945... What's in the future?

This exhibit will be on view through June 28,1997 Opening June 6, 1997 6-9PM

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