Scarification

 

Scarification

 

Scarification is a cultural activity that is popular in Africa. I tis often achieved by cutting the skin with pieces of glass, stone or coconut shell. Cicatrisation is a special form of scarification, whereby a gash is made into the skin using a sharp object causeing irration. Then plant juices are applied. It is a long an painful process.

Scarification has many significant meanings, it identifys an indivual as part of a group or tribe, part of a family, and also emphisises social, political and religous roles. Many people believe that these scars make one more attractive.

Scars on different parts of the body also has a meaning. A scar on the face represents childhood, and one the body represents adulthood. It very painful, however this symbolises that to become a man you have to experence pain.

Scarification is like a medal of honour, simular to plastic surgery, it is another way to beautify themseleves.

Here are some of my favourite images i found of Scarification

 

I think that the patterns used are very interesting, and even a simple pattern looks very effective and beatiful. My favourite image is the one of the mans back. This is an extremely complex design and looks very effective.

 We tried to re-create scarification in class using split peas, rice and liquid latex. A much less painful way of achieving a scar!