New exhibit 'Ancestral Ecologies' explores cultural beliefs on nature at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden * Brooklyn Paper

A site-specific exhibition at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden connects cultural beliefs and traditions with contemporary environmental stewardship. “Ancestral Ecologies” uses animism, treating animals, plants, rocks, rivers, and objects as spiritual beings, to examine modern human relationships with the natural world. The work draws inspiration from beliefs held by Indigenous communities and the African and Latinx diasporas, and it aligns with the garden’s “micro-ecosystems” and native plantings. “Serpentine Specter” appears in the Native Flora Garden and references local habitats, their adaptability, and the specialized life forms they support. “Sonic Strands” in the Woodland Garden uses hanging materials and historically potent objects to create sound and reflect cultural continuity. “Animist Capsules” uses earthen sculptures covered with moss and fungi to emphasize living, reciprocal relationships.

"“Ancestral Ecologies,” by artist Olalekan Jeyifous and architect AD-WO, uses animism - the belief that all animals, plants, rocks, rivers and objects are spiritual beings - as a way to examine modern human relationships with the natural world."

"“We're really interested in this notion of nonhuman aliveness,” Jeyifous said in a statement. “So, this is a collaboration not just with each other but also with the plants, soil, and environment.”"

"“Serpentine Specter,” a tall, colorful piece made of bioderived fibers and colored glass, sits in the Native Flora Garden. That garden, filled with native plants and designed to mimic the natural habitats that once covered the city, including a bog, a meadow and pine barrens. “Serpentine Specter” references those habitats, their inherent adaptability and sustainability, and the specialized life forms who call them home."

"In the Elizabeth Scholtz Woodland Garden, “Sonic Strands” comprises hanging curtains strung with sea beans, cowrie shells, recycled glass, and other “historically potent objects” from the African and Latinx diasporas and the Indigenous people of Brooklyn. The strands were created in part by BBG visitors during a special event, and make noise when they flutter in the wind or vibrate, reflecting “the histories of movement and cultural continuity in Brooklyn as a collective of artistic voices.”"

Read at Brooklyn Paper