During the infamous witch trials in early modern Europe and America, numerous exhibits played a significant role in the proceedings. These exhibits were presented as evidence of the accused individuals' purported involvement in witchcraft and the supernatural, ultimately leading to their conviction and, in many cases, execution. One common type of exhibit was the so-called "witch's mark." This was a physical feature on the body of the accused that was believed to be a visible sign of their alliance with the devil. Such marks were typically moles, birthmarks, or irregular skin formations, and were seen as evidence of the devil's pact and his branding of the accused as his own. The presence of a witch's mark was often considered decisive proof of guilt, reinforcing the beliefs in the literal existence of witches and their powers.
Witch Hunt offers an incisive survey of complex and impactful practices by some of the most influential artists working today and includes newly commissioned works as well as major projects that have yet to be shown on the West Coast or in the United States. Witch Hunt marks the Los Angeles museum debut of Leonor Antunes, Shu Lea Cheang, Minerva Cuevas, Bouchra Khalili, Laura Lima, Otobong Nkanga, and Okwui Okpokwasili.
The projects in the exhibition constitute an art of resistance, disrupting cultural discourse and proposing new ways of thinking and enacting change at a moment of unprecedented suffering and upheaval across the globe. Trunk, made perhaps in Boston or London, 1670; wood, seal skin, iron Salem Peabody Essex Museum, Gift of George Rea Curwen, 1898, 3970; photograph by Kathy Tarantola.
The presence of a witch's mark was often considered decisive proof of guilt, reinforcing the beliefs in the literal existence of witches and their powers. Another common exhibit were the "witch bottles." These were containers filled with various materials, such as urine, pins, nails, or hair, and were believed to have been used by witches to harm their victims through magical means.
Enfilade
The discovery of a witch bottle during the searches of a suspected witch's home was seen as damning evidence of their involvement in witchcraft, as it was believed that the substances inside the bottle would mirror the physical afflictions suffered by the victims of the accused. In addition to physical objects, the testimonies of witnesses and accusers were also considered exhibits against the accused at the witch trials. Witnesses would recount bizarre or supernatural occurrences that they believed were caused by the accused. These testimonies often included stories of bewitchment, fits, or strange visions, and were taken as proof of the accused's malevolent powers. The power of these testimonies lay in their ability to convince the judges and the juries that there was concrete evidence for the existence of witches and that the accused were, indeed, guilty. Overall, exhibits played a crucial role in the witch trials, serving as the tangible proof of the accused individuals' alleged involvement in witchcraft. Whether in the form of physical objects or witness testimonies, these exhibits strengthened the beliefs in the supernatural and the existence of witches, ultimately leading to the tragic fate of many innocent people..
Reviews for "Trials and Tribulations: Experience the Witch Trials with this Exhibit"
1. Amy - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Exhibit at the witch trials". The whole experience felt like a low-budget horror film gone wrong. The set design was tacky, the actors lacked depth in their performances, and the storyline was incredibly predictable. I was hoping for an immersive and chilling experience, but instead, I was left feeling bored and unimpressed. Save your money and skip this one.
2. John - 1 star - "Exhibit at the witch trials" was a complete waste of time. The atmosphere was non-existent, and the scares were more laughable than terrifying. It felt like the creators were more focused on jump scares instead of building a genuinely creepy environment. The actors were unconvincing, and there was no real substance to the storyline. I would not recommend this exhibit to anyone looking for a genuinely frightening experience.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - I found "Exhibit at the witch trials" to be quite underwhelming. The concept had potential, but the execution fell flat. The scares were too predictable and lacked creativity. The actors seemed disengaged, and the overall atmosphere was far from immersive. I expected to be terrified, but instead, I left feeling lukewarm. It's a shame because with a more talented cast and better storytelling, this exhibit could have been outstanding.