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Clare

from : Derbyshire, UK

personal object : a necklace

My great-auntie was a spiritualist and she was like a grandma to me. When I was a young teenager she ignited my acceptance and belief about the spiritual world around and beyond us.  She bequeathed me this necklace made from lapis lazuli, which, in my 30’s became even more special to me as I delved into Buddhism where lapis is considered to be a spiritual gem. It was too small for me to wear; I wondered exactly when Aunty Ada had been given it, and by whom, for it to have ever been her size! In my 50’s I met a lady who offered to make it into a necklace I could wear by restringing it with additional darker blue beads and small silver beads. When I wear it I feel connected to generations before me and to the spiritual life beyond. It was important to me to place the beads in a circular ‘O’ in this photograph, to represent the Buddhist ‘Om’. I find the beads bring me a feeling of peace, calmness and internal reflection - and warmth from beyond.

chosen artwork : From Angel Series, Roma, September 1977 Francesca Woodman, 1977

I chose this artwork for the spiritual feel in the photograph: light – the scent of an angel – support for the girl – no clutter – life and meaning laid bare – simple beauty – memories.

 

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 Click here to see Clare's chosen artwork at the Tate