In my research of rituals and rites of passage I was very interested by the relation of Colombian average people and the consumption of cocaine.
Seen as a sin by many, one can say that to be invited to take cocaine is a contemporary rite of passage that gives you entrance to a “secret society” of consumers.
Coca is still considered as a sacred plant by many indian communities, obviously, it is not the same product as manufactured cocaine, but still, in the traditional use of coca leaves, there is the need of an alkaloid so that there is an effect on the person who takes them. I was surprised to know mashed shells were used for this purpose.
Here is a collection of contemporary ritual objects made out of shells and using the strong popular image of the razor blade used by many to cut cocaine.
This project was an invitation of Proyectos Sauna curator: Juan Haag.
