The next “Spirited Things” event will take place this Thursday, October 19 at 5:00PM

Featuring Dr. Elizabeth McAlister, Chair of African American Studies and Professor of Religion, Wesleyan University, speaking on:

“Power Objects: Charging and Discharging in Afro-Caribbean Religion”

How do material objects work as powerful catalysts for transformation, healing, or defense in the Afro-Atlantic religious world? This talk examines decorated bottles from Haiti as containers for spiritual energy, and unpacks the logics by which a seemingly inanimate object can be charged with powerful energy, and de-charged when its work is complete.

The Spirited Things exhibition officially opens TOMORROW! There are also two exciting events happening this week:

–On Tuesday, September 26 at 4pm, Professor J. Lorand Matory will deliver a lecture on “African Gods in the Western Museum” in the Livak Ballroom at the UVM Davis Center.

–On Thursday, September 28 from 5:30-7:00 PM, the Fleming Museum will hold an opening reception for the “Spirited Things” exhibition, as well as for “Herbert Barnett: Vermont Life and Landscape, 1940-1948.” The event is hosted by University of Vermont Provost David Rosowsky, Fleming Director Janie Cohen, and the Museum’s Board of Advisors. Featuring a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, and live music.

And there is so much more to come! Stay tuned!