For GRIMOIRE, Erika Wanenmacher presents an exhibition of personal spell-making; a journey of gathering and storing magic. In a preliminary exhibition description, Erika writes,

“Although the term grimoire usually denotes a traditional encyclopedia of western magic, this show really describes my own personal territory of art-making. Several years ago I realized that what I was constructing — physically and mentally — were spells. My favorite definition of magic comes from Dion Fortune who declares it “the art of changing consciousness at will.” In considering my work as spells, the most important aspect is the intent. It is imperative to be clear. What do I want this spell to do? The intent is out in front of any action. As a storyteller, if I can get my story (intent) across, then I have acted upon the consciousness of the viewer. Magic.”

In her exhibition, Erika Wanenmacher will show both early two- and three-dimensional pieces and newer installation work made especially for SITE Santa Fe. She will present a large installation featuring her car — a 1972 Volvo station wagon with a Chevy 350 engine that runs on propane — in the middle of a 16 foot pentacle sand painting, covered with a net held by 5 large cast aluminum heads. The heads, (a recurring image in her work and based on the likeness of Erika and the Aztec goddess Teoloztatl), will hold the ends of the net clamped in their teeth. The car will be loaded with pieces of art packed in found boxes. On the walls will be 4 videos, each one representing a different element (earth, air, fire, water).

The exhibition will also feature light boxes, showing x-rays of the box pieces in the car and individual sculptures that are magical tools; including a trickster box containing raven and coyote arms; a post-apocalyptic traveling magic tool set; and a giant necklace of the Hindu goddess Kali.