Supernatural by Graham Hancock

I found a book in the esoteric section of my local Oxfam book store this Easter. One can usually find some very interesting books at this shop and I was fortunate to find this one, a signed hardback copy none the less. The work focus's primarily upon ancient tribal teachings and is founded upon the study of shamanic traditions preserved up until the current age. These traditions are thousands of years old and link to the earliest reflections mankind has had in relation to itself and the natural world.

Hancock focuses on his own experimentations with Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic brew taken by shamans principally in South America. His experiences, done legally under controlled conditions, are riveting and fascinate me, as my own propensities, as previously expatiated, are linked strongly to the otherworldliness of such transcendental encounters. Hancock initiated this process as a means of studying the veracity of Shamanic traditions and the experiences shamans would attest to from using Ayahuasca. It was proven to be a very potent and true subject that Hancock's own experiences have more than validated.

The author was drawn to this realm of activity for two prime reasons, to reconnect and find closure with his deceased father and to study the possibility that within shamanic traditions, mythology and beliefs there lies a greater truth concerning the creation of human civilisation. Hancock takes a very interesting viewpoint that instead of ancient astronauts being responsible for the conversion of humanity from hunter gathers to civilised beings replete with technology, the arts and agriculture, (a theory purported by the likes of Erich von Daniken), it was the connection wise sages held with the supernatural realm that was the main reason for such a profound and abrupt transformation 50,000 years ago. Hancock believes that supernatural beings facilitated information through these shamanic practices to help instruct humans to become more than stone age wanderers.

It is work such as this that propels my own practice, philosophy and artistic endeavours. I am constantly seeking to acquire greater knowledge in this area, firstly to make greater sense of my own experiences, yet also to actuate these propensities into a conducive and effective artistic representation, a process I feel I am continuing to refine, especially with my latest first Master's degree exhibition work.