The Dark Arts
Julia Brown, Adolfo Constanzo, Ronald Eric Salazar, Frantz Bordes, Valdano Riche, Mose H. Martin. Undoubtedly, these names are unlikely to ring a bell for anyone, which is unsurprising as they are not notably famous or important. Originating from different places and periods, what connects them is that they all either practised the Dark Arts or claimed that they had been cursed in some way to either suffer or cause someone to suffer or even die. Falling outside the scope of organised religion and science, Occultism suggests involving a ‘hidden’ or ‘secret’ power, such as magic and mysticism, breaking natural rules and relying on malefic powers. Commonly known as Voodoo, Witchcraft or Black Magic, their intended use is to cause harm, but in some cases, even helpful magic was attributed to demons. Another term that encapsulates them all is the Dark Arts. Let’s explore some of them then.
VOODOO
Originating primarily in West Africa, Voodoo combines the elements of two religious belief systems: Catholicism and West African Vodun. Ancestral spirits and devotional practices are inherited from parents and grandparents and comprise many spirits, both those of the unseen world and living humans. Variations of the religion spread throughout the world as a result of the slave trade to Cuba, Spain, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, America and predominantly Haiti, where it is known as Voodoo.
WITCHCRAFT
Early witches were defined as those who practised Witchcraft using magic spells and calling upon spirits for help or to bring about change. An often misunderstood choice of profession, witches were usually thought to be doing the Devil’s work; however, most were natural healers or so-called ‘wise women’ who roamed the forests alone, collecting herbs or talking to animals. Widows, single women and women on the margins of society were targeted during witch hunts, most of whom were executed by hanging or burned at the stake. These days, a witch hunt is more likely related to a campaign directed against a person or group considered to be a threat to society for having unorthodox views.
BLACK MAGIC
Traditionally, using magic or supernatural powers for evil and selfish purposes was referred to as Black Magic. It was commonly reserved for those hexing or cursing their neighbours, invoking demons and other evil spirits to destroy crops, and also included those capable of leaving their earthly bodies, usually to engage in devil worship. People who practice Black Magic or seek the help of professional black magicians seem to have one goal in mind: to harm others. This includes, but is not limited to, making people sick, depriving them of living peaceful lives or even using their souls to harm others. Carlos Santana’s famous single ‘Black Magic Woman’ sings it nicely:
“I’ve got a black magic woman
Got me so blind, I can’t see
That she’s a black magic woman
She’s trying to make a devil outta me”
DARK ART
Critical art or protest art is also referred to as Dark Art. It is used to provoke controversy and dispute and to spread a message to the public declaring criticism or a complaint. Macabre scenes make us stop and think about ourselves in an attempt to better understand a side of human nature we thought was forgotten. Rooted in the legacy of artists such as Francisco Goya, H.R Giger and Salvador Dali, throughout history we find famous artists who wanted to show and share the darkest and most terrifying side of their experiences. The macabre works to emphasise the details and symbols of death, particularly gruesome in nature, as a reminder of the fragility of our lives.
But for those who would rather not delve too deep into this matter, I suggest you sit back with some unhealthy snacks, switch on your television and stream films about wizardry or binge on Harry Potter movies. After all, life is just too short to be dark.
Words by Amir Yussof
Find out more about Amir here.
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