In the last few weeks, I have managed to pack in quite a few exhibitions. I have decided to fill up my art journal with these memorable experiences. I love learning about different cultures, ancient cultures hold particular fascination for me. However, the Aztec page proved quite a challenge in how to depict my feelings about the exhibition.
The Aztecs worshipped many gods, I have printed out and pasted in the Aztec calendar stone on the journal page. In the centre is the sun god Tonatuih, holding a human heart in each of his hands, his tongue a ritual blade for sacrifice. As the sun god, human sacrifices were often offered in order for him to remain strong.
I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibition and there were many amazing things but I struggled with the amount of human and animal sacrifices. We saw alters especially for holding down the sacrifices, stone carved containers for holding the hearts. Even the poor pet dog did not escape! The Aztecs believed dogs acted as guardians to escort their master's soul on their voyage. I tried to include these elements in the journal page without getting too macabre but still being true to the culture.
I thought you might like to see a few of the artefacts from that day at the Sydney Australian Museum.
For the crafter's out there, what do you think of these Aztec clay stamps and mould? Pretty impressive I would say!
Distress inks, acrylic paints, colour mists, watersoluble crayons, metallic gilding flakes and a paint pen were used. Also a background stencil and crackle stamp added to the many layers.
Most times, I have an idea of how I am going to approach a painting or journal page, this time it developed organically without me knowing how it was going to turn out but I love how it embraces beauty with chaos. What do you think?
Until next time, Happy Creating!
