07

BOŽETĚCH

This work was inspired by the Asmat skulls found in museums around the world. The Asmat - a group of indigenous people coming from parts of the island of New Guinea - are known for their unique cultural traditions and cannibalism. Among the customs associated with cannibalism was eating the brains of enemies, which were mixed with worms.

Their skulls were then decorated with feathers, shells, seeds, and other natural materials. The holes in the skull were sealed to prevent an evil spirit from coming out and therefore keeping it inside. The Asmat also used the skulls as pillows. My exhibit features the eaten missionary, Božetěch, who was modified by the Asmat into a trophy skull decorated with rooster feathers, beads, animal teeth, and bones.