Vodou Material Culture in the Museum: Reflections on the complexities of demonstrating material culture of assemblage and accumulation in a traditional museum environment

Abstract

Through experiences of two different museum spaces the nature of material objects of Vodou are considered. How can the complexities of ritual deposits, assemblage, and continued interaction that are present within a religious space, such as the Vodou altar, be demonstrated to outsiders via a curated space? The materiality of these objects and accumulations is considered and the question is posed as to their importance in the understanding of the nature of Vodou worship. Can a traditional museum setting that favours manufactured objects over the spontaneous ritual deposit and repurposed object convey the intricacy of the material culture of Vodou if it negates the inclusion of these artefacts?

Keywords:

• vodou
• altar
• ritual deposit
• New Orleans

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Natalie Armitage

Natalie Armitage completed her PhD from the University of Manchester looking into the historical and cultural representations of figurative image magic culminating in the popular misconception regarding the voodoo doll in its practice and origin through its representation in popular culture in 2016. Her research interests include aspects of racial stereotyping and negative constructions of religion, magical practice and superstition, the ways in which popular media, such as film, television and literature, can shape and perpetuate these ideas.

She is currently pursuing her research as an independent scholar while working in the Arts and Heritage sector as an Education Manager.

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