Holy milk vessel (2017)

This series does not just expand upon the Holy Cow theme, the ca. 25 cm high and 15 cm wide sculptures refer to some of the earliest works of prehistoric art; small, cattle and so-called Venus (limestone/ clay and bone) figurines and murals found in Paleolithic caves. The cattle images may have had ritual significance related to hunting. Examining the female figurines, their large breasts, round belly, and prodigious vulva take center stage. They are all about sex, reproduction and survival. The women in these small sculptures often appear pregnant, their breasts engorged with milk. 

The fertility and vulnerability of prehistoric art inspired Tom to create his new series. Hybrid, almost mythological creatures with voluptuous female bodies and bull heads provide us physical and spiritual nourishment. The wood-carved barrels containing real cow milk are reminiscent of holy water vessels. Carvings from wood were frequently used for religious purposes in antiquity. Wood-carving, however, did not receive its real development until the Christian era.

The series embraces the importance of natural resources, which predominated prehistoric religion and society  but is often overlooked today. As the artist favors a universal approach, the cross shape in the Milk barrel series goes beyond the obvious Christian symbolism. The series shows similarities to small stone pendants  found in Paphos, Cyprus (3,000 - 2,500 B.C), depicting seated or squatting women in the act of giving birth. The artist tackles universal themes like life,  death and transformation, challenging the views of -and on- society. Like most of his works, the Holy Cow series shows a clear contrast between the 'old' and the 'new.' While Holy Cow (2017) was made in polyester -a critical hint at modern-day wastefulness-, this series is hand carved in hardwood.

Tom deliberately chose this material because its perishable character embodies the ‘vanitas’ theme; the transience of nature, culture and religion. The milk barrel series however demonstrates a deep, universal connection with our ancestors.

© Text by Lara van Oudenaarde.
© Photos by Tom Herck.