Way of the water Collection
Way of the water is a 5 piece installation that will be on display and for sale at the Afrikin Foundation Art Gallery in Miami Florida
These pieces were inspired by the story of the Nommo who are ancient ancestors who once inhabited the Sirius star system. I have had dreams and received energetic downloads about these beings that confirm much of what has been shared throughout history about them. They hadn't been depicted in art very much and so it was given to me in meditation to create them and make their presence felt in our world. Pieces in this collection are on full display starting December 1, 2024 during Miami Art Week and Art Basel and throughout 2025 or until sold.
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who are the nommo?
The Nommo, or Nommos, are fascinating beings rooted deeply in the mythology of the Dogon people of Mali, an ethnic group renowned for their intricate spiritual cosmology. According to Dogon traditions, the Nommo are aquatic, fish-like beings who descended from the star Sirius, specifically from Sirius B, a companion star to the brighter Sirius A. The Dogon’s mythology surrounding the Nommo includes intricate astronomical knowledge that baffled Western researchers when it was first documented by French anthropologists Marcel Griaule and Germaine Dieterlen in the 1930s.
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The Nommo are described as amphibious beings with a mix of humanoid and fish-like characteristics. According to Dogon oral tradition, they had a serpentine or fish-like lower body and a humanoid upper body. Their skin was said to shimmer like water, and they were associated with fertility, renewal, and water's life-giving properties.
The Nommo are believed to be highly advanced spiritually and technologically. They are seen as divine teachers and progenitors of humanity, bringing knowledge, order, and structure to Earth. The Dogon state that the Nommo came from the heavens in an ark, a term often interpreted as a spacecraft. Upon arriving on Earth, they shared profound cosmic wisdom, teaching the Dogon about astronomy, agriculture, and the nature of the universe.
The Sirius Connection
One of the most astounding aspects of the Dogon’s Nommo mythology is their detailed knowledge of Sirius. The Dogon knew that Sirius B, an invisible white dwarf companion star to Sirius A, existed long before Western astronomers confirmed its presence in 1862. They also spoke of a third star, Sirius C (known as "Emme Ya"), which some modern researchers speculate may indeed exist. The Dogon claim the Nommo hailed from this star system.
The Dogon also describe the orbital period of Sirius B around Sirius A with remarkable accuracy (50 years), knowledge that would have been impossible to ascertain without advanced telescopes. This has led many to speculate that their myths are evidence of ancient contact with extraterrestrial beings.
Teachings of Credo Mutwa
The late Credo Mutwa, a revered South African Zulu sangoma (shaman), also spoke extensively about aquatic beings resembling the Nommo. Mutwa referred to water-dwelling or amphibious entities in African folklore and cosmology, though he used different terminology. He stated that these beings were known across many African cultures, not just the Dogon.
Mutwa described them as serpent-like or reptilian water spirits with immense wisdom and an ancient connection to humanity. He believed they played a pivotal role in shaping early human civilizations. According to Mutwa, these beings were revered as gods or intermediaries between the divine and humanity, often associated with water deities. Their teachings included advanced knowledge of the cosmos, healing practices, and metaphysical concepts.
Mutwa also warned about misinterpretations of these beings, asserting that while they were beneficial in the past, their legacy has been distorted in modern times, leading to misunderstandings about their true purpose.
Similar Beings in Other Ancient Cultures
Stories of aquatic or fish-like beings are not exclusive to the Dogon or African traditions. They appear in several ancient cultures around the world:
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Mesopotamia:
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The Sumerians spoke of Oannes, a half-man, half-fish being who emerged from the sea to teach humanity writing, science, and architecture. Oannes was part of the group known as the Apkallu, often depicted with fish-like features.
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Babylon:
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The Babylonian god Ea (or Enki), associated with water, wisdom, and creation, is often linked to aquatic symbolism. Enki was said to dwell in the Abzu, a subterranean sea, and played a vital role in imparting knowledge to humanity.
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India:
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In Hindu mythology, the Matsya Avatar of Vishnu, a fish-like form, is said to have saved the sacred Vedas and guided humanity during a great flood.
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Greek Mythology:
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The Nereids, daughters of Nereus, and Triton, a merman, were considered divine beings of the sea. While their roles were more symbolic, they shared characteristics with other aquatic deities.
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Native American Cultures:
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Some Native American tribes, such as the Hopi, speak of Kachina spirits who emerged from watery realms to guide humanity. Though not explicitly fish-like, they are connected to subterranean aquatic worlds.
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Their Contribution to Humanity
The Nommo, and beings like them, are often credited with foundational contributions to human development:
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Astronomical Knowledge: The Dogon’s understanding of Sirius, the Sumerians’ celestial observations, and the advanced astronomical systems of the Maya and Egyptians are sometimes attributed to extraterrestrial or divine teachers like the Nommo.
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Agricultural Advancements: Myths often mention the Nommo teaching humanity how to cultivate crops, domesticate animals, and manage water resources effectively.
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Spiritual and Mystical Teachings: These beings are linked to profound spiritual systems, including the concept of the soul, reincarnation, and the interconnectedness of all life.
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Technological and Architectural Wisdom: From the ziggurats of Mesopotamia to the pyramids of Egypt, legends often credit advanced beings with sharing the knowledge to build monumental structures.
Modern Interpretations and Speculations
Modern researchers and theorists have varying perspectives on the Nommo:
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Ancient Aliens Hypothesis: Some believe the Nommo were extraterrestrial beings who visited Earth and shared advanced knowledge. This theory is bolstered by the Dogon’s precise astronomical information.
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Symbolic Archetypes: Others interpret the Nommo as mythological archetypes, embodying humanity's deep connection to water and its essential role in life and creation.
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Interdimensional Beings: Some spiritual perspectives suggest the Nommo were interdimensional entities, bridging the material and ethereal realms to assist humanity’s evolution.
The Nommo and similar aquatic beings remain an enigma, blending myth, spiritual philosophy, and tantalizing hints of advanced ancient knowledge. Whether viewed as gods, extraterrestrials, or symbolic representations, their stories continue to captivate and inspire deep inquiry into humanity’s origins and destiny.
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Differences between nommo and mermaid
The distinction between the Nommo of Dogon mythology and the concept of mermaids or merpeople lies in their origins, cultural interpretations, and the roles they play in human history and myth. While they share aquatic and humanoid traits, their symbolism, purpose, and relationship with humanity diverge significantly.
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Origins and Cosmology
The Nommo
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Extraterrestrial Origin: The Nommo are described as advanced amphibious beings from the Sirius star system. Their mythology emphasizes cosmic wisdom and their mission as bringers of knowledge, order, and spiritual enlightenment to Earth.
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Purposeful Descent: According to Dogon lore, the Nommo deliberately descended to Earth in a celestial "ark" to guide humanity. Their arrival was not accidental but part of a divine or cosmic plan.
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Role as Teachers: The Nommo are portrayed as benevolent beings, closely associated with fertility, creation, and the dissemination of advanced knowledge.
Mermaids and Merpeople
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Earthly and Mythical Origins: Mermaids and merpeople originate from terrestrial myths across multiple cultures, often rooted in seafaring traditions, tales of the unknown, and the mystique of the ocean.
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Natural or Mystical Creatures: They are depicted as native inhabitants of Earth’s waters rather than beings from another planet or star system. Their existence is often tied to local waters—seas, rivers, or lakes.
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Dual Nature: Unlike the Nommo, who are typically depicted as benevolent guides, mermaids and mermen are often seen as dual-natured, embodying both allure and danger. They may bless sailors with safe passage or lead them to their doom, depending on the culture.
Physical Characteristics
The Nommo
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Aquatic Yet Cosmic: The Nommo are described as amphibious beings with fish-like or serpentine lower bodies and humanoid upper bodies. Their skin is often depicted as shimmering or luminous, symbolizing their connection to water and their celestial origin.
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Sacred Appearance: Their features are sometimes described as otherworldly, blending human, aquatic, and reptilian traits. They are not traditionally depicted as beautiful in a human sense but rather as divine and awe-inspiring.
Mermaids and Merpeople
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Traditional Aquatic Beauty: Mermaids are often depicted as beautiful human women with the tail of a fish, while mermen are less commonly described but typically appear as muscular male counterparts. Their beauty is central to their myths, as it serves to enchant and mesmerize humans.
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Localized Variations: Their appearance varies by culture—some traditions, like those of the Caribbean Mami Wata, depict them as powerful, enchanting spirits with both aquatic and serpentine attributes.
Cultural Roles and Symbolism
The Nommo
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Divine Instructors: The Nommo are revered as wise and benevolent beings, tasked with uplifting humanity. Their role in Dogon mythology is sacred and deeply tied to cosmology, fertility, and the cycles of life.
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Universal Archetypes: They are symbolic of balance, order, and the link between humanity and the cosmos. Their teachings transcend the physical world, diving into metaphysics and spirituality.
Mermaids and Merpeople
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Guardians of Nature: In many traditions, mermaids are seen as protectors of water, embodying its beauty, mystery, and power. They are tied to the health and balance of aquatic ecosystems.
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Temptation and Danger: Mermaids often serve as cautionary figures, warning of the dangers of hubris, greed, or disrespecting nature. Their allure can represent the seductive pull of the unknown or forbidden.
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Cultural Storytellers: Mermaids have inspired countless tales and songs, serving as metaphors for human emotion, longing, and the mysteries of the deep.
Interactions with Humanity
The Nommo
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Proactive Engagement: The Nommo actively sought out humanity to impart knowledge. They are seen as deliberate participants in human development, offering wisdom about astronomy, agriculture, and spirituality.
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Legacy of Knowledge: Their teachings endure in Dogon cosmology and in the broader discussion of extraterrestrial intervention in human history.
Mermaids and Merpeople
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Elusive and Mysterious: Mermaids rarely interact with humans directly. When they do, the encounters are often unpredictable—ranging from blessings to curses, marriage to tragedy.
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Mythical Encounters: Many mermaid legends are rooted in sailors’ tales, often involving fleeting glimpses or fantastical stories told after long voyages. Their impact on humanity is more symbolic than direct.
Spiritual and Esoteric Interpretations
The Nommo
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Messengers of the Cosmos: The Nommo’s story aligns with spiritual themes of divine guidance, cosmic interconnectedness, and humanity’s place in a vast, intelligent universe.
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Evolutionary Guides: In esoteric thought, the Nommo might represent higher-dimensional beings aiding in the spiritual evolution of humanity, serving as intermediaries between the material and spiritual realms.
Mermaids and Merpeople
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Nature Spirits: Mermaids are often viewed as elemental beings, embodying the water element and its qualities of emotion, intuition, and depth.
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Shadow and Light: Spiritually, they can symbolize the duality of human nature—beauty and danger, life and destruction, attraction and fear.
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Common Ground
Despite their differences, the Nommo and mermaids share some similarities:
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Aquatic Nature: Both are intrinsically tied to water, symbolizing life, renewal, and mystery.
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Spiritual Connection: They are revered or feared as beings beyond the mundane, bridging human and divine realms.
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Global Reach: Their legends span multiple cultures, underscoring humanity’s fascination with water and the unknown.
The Nommo and mermaids represent humanity’s profound connection to water, the cosmos, and the mysteries of existence. While the Nommo are revered as divine teachers and cosmic messengers, mermaids embody the allure, danger, and beauty of Earth’s waters—a reflection of the human psyche and our eternal quest for knowledge and meaning.
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