Memento Mori translates to remember you must die. I however have been looking at different ways to interpret the philosophy. One thing that interests me is how we as humans view death. In many cultures around the world, past and present, humans have had different relationships with death. Many are accepting and many are filled with fear. I understand that fear of death is universal and justified, but but a level of acceptance can be found in many cultures. The Mexican day of the dead for example (although based on a belief in spirits) is less a day of sadness and more a celebration. Other examples of celebrating the life of the dead rather than mourning their death are, the New Orleans jazz funeral, Bali’s Ngaben cremation ritual, Madagascar’s turning of the bones and Ghana’s fantasy coffins.

In most of western culture however death has more eerie connotations and imagery, this can be seen throughout a huge quantity of artworks that include imagery that reminder the viewer of death. Although I am creating a contemporary work i would still like to include an element of authentic Memento Mori symbolism. Classic imagery includes, Skulls, Hourglass, candles and flowers. These being the most classic depictions of death there are also animals that create a similar effect such as vultures and crows. Many contemporary artists who have explored the theme such as Damian Hirst and Takashi Murakami have included skulls in their work.

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I feel the skull is timeless and easily relatable. For this reason I have begun exploring the use of skulls within my work. The instant understanding of death that comes with the use of this imagery is something i’m looking for in my work, however I would also like for there to be nuances and intricacies to my final piece that require a deeper level of understanding. One way in which i could do this is by including other elements that hold connotations to more modern links to death.

Below is my first experimentation with skull imagery. The result is flat and unimpressive. I am happy with the use of a natural material to create a collage type piece, as the work will change over time, and is essentially temporary. This fits well with my theme. Moving forward however i would like to create a more interesting and relevant background. I would also like to introduce more three-dimensional elements to the work.

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Here are some textures i could use.

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Of the four textures I am most interested by the plaster, could also be used to create a three-dimensional work. I could build up a shape and then adorn the sculpture/drawing with biodegradable materials, possibly roses? Roses being a common flower to place on someones grave.