Resident Archaeologist for VINP, Ken Wild showing a beaded zemi
Jackson examining a zemi replica
Tommy, with the replica. We learned that the zemis were broken off the bowls to release the spirits of Taino ancestors
Shalise, holding a smooth shell that was used to burnish clay pots. Burnish means, to make smooth or polish by rubbing.
Kainoa, holding a bag containing "red ocre," a rock used for body painting when wet.
Lignum Vitae
The nose of the native Virgin Islands bat inspired the noses on ancestral zemis. These zemis represented a Taino chief that was no longer living.
These clay zemis were broken off of bowls for ceremonial use.
This zemi artifact displays the headress of a Taino chief.
We learned that zemis were made from several different materials, such as clay, stone, wood, beads and cotton.
More zemi artifacts.
Susanna and 4th grade students sift through dirt found at the Cinnamon Bay archaeological dig site.
We learned the difference between an eco-fact and an artifact.
After sifting, we found bits of shell and pottery. The shell represents an eco-fact, which is a natural object that has not been manipulated by man. Pottery is considered an artifact, because it is man-made. Both of these objects help teach us about the Taino's diet, way of life and their culture.
Gail Van de Bogurt from Maho Bay Clayworks facilitates the clay portion of the project where student create their own, original zemis.
Each student's zemi is a unique, anthropomorphic creature that has supernatural capabilities, to benefit the universe, of course.
Vivica, with "Spincer." The half girl, half dog, who can spin her way into space.
Gail returned to "pit-fire" the students pottery.
Luca's zemi.
Kisha in fire gear.
The fourth grade students stop for a photo.
Students assisted in every bit of the process. Third graders prepared the space for the fire and carefully arranged the wood around the pottery. Fourth grade students helped Gail tend to the fire.
A zemi aglow with red-heat.
3rd graders sort through the rubble.
4th graders display finished work with student-made signs.
"Torn," by John Spinale.
