Description
Niki Lopez’s ‘The Guardian II’ is a profound mixed-media sculpture that stands as both a testament to her personal journey and a universal exploration of self-healing and self-love. This limited edition piece, the first of a series of 50, is a remarkable 12″ x 6″ x 1.5″ mixed-media sculpture that resonates with spiritual depth.
Visualized within ‘The Guardian II’ is a plaster face mask meticulously carved to unveil a striking blend of tribal marks and a sacred spiral, gently resting upon the third eye. The eyes of the sculpture are gently closed, symbolizing a meditative state, an embodiment of prayer, and an invocation of inner reflection.
The sculpture rests on a sturdy wooden panel canvas that has been carefully painted to complement the intricate carving. Encircling the upper and lower portions of the mask, you’ll find a graceful array of cowrie shells, known as the mouthpiece of the Orishas in Yoruba practices. These shells are used to facilitate communication with the Orishas, and they also hold significant cultural symbolism. Cowrie shells are integral to Santeria, serving as vital tools for priests and priestesses.
Within Mende culture, cowrie shells are recognized as symbols of womanhood, fertility, birth, and wealth. ‘The Guardian II’ encapsulates these cultural aspects, blending them with a rich spiritual narrative.
The piece exudes the essence of Niki’s artistic mission, encouraging viewers to embark on a journey of self-healing, self-love, and introspection.
The limited edition nature of ‘The Guardian II’ ensures its uniqueness, with each piece being meticulously hand-crafted. No two sculptures will be identical, making this limited series a true collector’s item for those who resonate with its message and artistic depth. It’s a creation that invites you to explore your own journey, your self-healing, and the guardian within.
Because these are unique works of art, please allow 2 week for creation prior to being shipped out.
*Work pictured is available for collecting and shipping within 5 days of order.