Valeria Montti Colque is known for creating image-worlds where new tales are allowed to emerge and where ritual-like performances open up space for forms of togetherness and belonging. Her inspiration comes from everywhere borrowing from everyday life as well as from myths, religions, rituals, and pop culture. In Örebro the artist enters into dialogue with the statue of Karl XIV Johan, a landmark in the city, but also a symbol of hierarchy and power.
The statue is transformed into La Ekeka – a goddess created by the artist, referencing the Andean god that brings prosperity to the people. The place behind the sculpture is transformed too. It has become a new public space for both common activities, as well as for rest and contemplation.
The transformation of the place wouldn’t be complete without its initiation rite. Carried out by Montti Colque herself and the small army of her characters, a joyous procession makes its way towards the transformed statue, pulling carts with what seem to be parts of a mountain. Upon arrival the public is invited to join in dressing the mountain with images and objects that have been sent by people in Örebro and beyond. A memory-mountain, or a wak’a – a sacred man-made object or natural boulder or mountain, found in the beliefs of the Andean people – is created from this common effort. Containing the memories and life-glimpses of the many people that donated them, the wak’a/mountain is placed on a raft right in front of Ekeka’s mantle, and a festive meal is shared with everyone around, be they participants, viewers or the curious birds that usually hang around at the spot.
El Rey gick ovan el Rainbow blev en vacker Rosa, fest måltid på Ekekas Mantel is a large-scale installation and performance work by Valeria Montti Colque, commissioned by Public Art Agecny Sweden for Örebro OpenArt.
Part of a series about rituals
El Rey gick ovan el Rainbow blev en vacker Rosa, fest måltid på Ekekas Mantel, is the start of “All my relations” – a new series of art projects developed by Public Art Agency Sweden that together with various artistic practices explores the potential of ritual to open up space for forms of togetherness and belonging.
Time and Location
When: june 15 – September 8
Where: Järntorget, Örebro
Participate in workshop: See calendar post Creative workshops at Örebro OpenArt: Rainbow magic at Ekeka’s Mantel in the calendar.