Interwoven Mythologies: Exploring Environmental Narratives through Sarah Elizabeth Cornejo’s Amaru
Crafted by Sarah Elizabeth Cornejo, a 2016 Davidson alumni in 2022, Amaru is a mixed-media sculpture. Specializing in sculpture, textiles, and installations, Cornejo uses her art to advocate for action against climate change. She blends current environmental concerns with the compelling narratives of Latin American mythology, challenging traditional views of human hierarchy. Cornejo creates a story that connects modern environmental struggles with Latin American mythology. Through her works, she questions the established human hierarchy by exploring the relationships between humans, animals, and technology. Using found materials that she repurposes, she constructs new storylines to raise awareness in those who see her creations.
Amaru is made of hand-stitched neoprene rubber, marine vinyl, tire tubes, and recycled silk clothing. It takes form as a snake-like creature with twisting, undulating limbs that convey a sense of perpetual motion, reminiscent of a mythical being. Covered in a spiky shell, the snake has a sense of delicacy and danger, its coil laying on the ground. The title pays homage to the Inca mythology’s winged, dual-headed serpent, with its Quechua word translating to ‘serpent.’ Amaru has significant power and a connection to nature as a divine being, committing itself to restoring the balance of the earth.
Cornejo’s sculpture is a powerful reminder that the earth can naturally heal itself, regardless of whether humans interfere. The combination of natural and man-made materials in her artwork shows our impact on the environment, and conveys a warning about the potential actions that the planet and its mythical creatures might take to protect it.
Despite my limited academic background in art history or Latin American mythology, I find myself interested in the intersection of art and environmental advocacy evident in Amaru. The symbolism in Amaru is particularly striking because of Cornejo’s choice to intertwine current environmental issues with Latin American mythology. The sinuous form of the sculpture, reminiscent of a mythical snake, shows the interconnectedness of nature and humanity. As a Davidson freshman, I’m just beginning to explore the unique relationships between different disciplines, and Cornejo’s work is a good example of interdisciplinary storytelling.
The use of materials in Amaru adds another layer to its narrative. The incorporation of hand-stitched neoprene rubber, marine vinyl, tire tubes, and recycled silk clothing shows Cornejo’s commitment to sustainability. This aligns with my growing awareness of environmental issues and sustainability initiatives on campus. Cornejo’s choice to repurpose found materials to reflect on the environmental impact of art production and how creativity can be a force for positive change.
The title, with its homage to Inca mythology, adds a cultural dimension that broadens my understanding of the connections between art, nature, and diverse belief systems. While my exposure to Latin American mythology is limited, Amaru encourages me to explore and appreciate the different stories that artists like Cornejo draw upon to convey their messages. While my current perspective is shaped by the limited knowledge I bring as a freshman, Sarah Elizabeth Cornejo’s Amaru serves as a gateway into the realms of art, environmentalism, and mythology. The intricacies of her work inspire me to seek a deeper understanding of these interconnected subjects as I continue my academic journey.
Wikimedia Foundation. (2023, November 21). Inca mythology. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inca_mythology
