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  • Essay / Analysis of Renee Stout's Tales of the Conspirated Woman

    Renee Stout's “Tales of the Conspirated Woman,” currently on display in Cosby Hall at Spelman College, highlights the culturally mysterious nature of African folklore. In the exhibition, Stout brilliantly presents the depth of the culture through its artistic manifestation of ceremonial traditions, magical hoodoo, and spell-related practices. In her works, Stout uses a unique personification, an alter ego of sorts, named Fatima Mayfield, to explore the African folkloric world her exhibition represents. Ranging from simple recipes to complex descriptions of the aforementioned magical practices, Stout approaches his work with his alter ego in an effort to demonstrate both the past and contemporary dimensions of his work. Additionally, it would seem that Fatima exists as some sort of special source of understanding and clarity for Stout, given his vast knowledge and innumerable abilities. The exhibition houses various pieces that allow one to “jump inside the pages” and interact with Stout’s interpretation of the African folk community. Take for example...