Tumulus

Growth Imperative

July - October '19

Since its inception, Tumulus has been slowly changing shape. On Friday, September 13th, 2019, the artist organized a dedication ceremony inaugurating Phase 2 of the project. Visitors were offered a libation made from weeds harvested from the Tumulus mound.

Ingredients for detox and intoxication were both growing abundantly on the Tumulus lot and were used to make drinks. For detoxing nettle (Urtica dioica) tea was served to the Tumulus visitors. Nettle tea has many medicinal qualities and for intoxication, Ruchama Noorda invited Dirk Vis and Edgar Walthert who made special absinthe from the herbs growing on the tumulus l'Absinthe de la rue de Dindon.

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Top view on Tumulus during the Growth Imperative - by Victoria Ushkanova

Absinth Alsem (Artemisia absinthium) is a bitter-tasting plant that has medicinal qualities. Historically it was also used in many alcoholic beverages even in beer and sometimes just as a flavoring. Nowadays absinthe has gained a nearly mythological reputation and is sometimes referred to as the Green Fairy.

Absinthe is entwined with stories about hallucinating artists and madness. But the most potent ingredient in absinthe is not so much the herb itself but the high alcohol level. The Artemisia absinthium has a slightly sobering effect and can make you feel both under influence and in clear spirit.