Sacred Vessels

by Ahichipaptunhe

Location

Tempe, Arizona

Tempe Beach Park

Installed

July 2022

Description

Pulling from his Lenape heritage, Ahchipaptunhe has always been fascinated with the power of oral tradition. The building blocks of civilization stem from the integration of land and water. Clay vessels provide for adaption, cultivation, transformation, and societal growth. Additionally, vessels serve as sacred objects; they support culture, tradition, and heritage.
The artist comments on this piece in his blog, “Some key design elements that were incorporated into this work reflect on the four directions, the color of Arizona’s summer fauna, and the significance of the landscape from which clay pottery is created. Negative and positive forms highlight the idea of removing from nature to create the sacred vessel. Lastly there is a significant spiritual aspect to this work which is the concept that we all are “sacred vessels”. As a sacred vessel we cultivate our communities, drive culture, establish new practices, and leave historical content for future generations to observe.”