Witch
The archetype of the witch defies definition or classification. The witch is a shapeshifter, the projection of our innermost desires and fears, and the embodiment of feminine power. They are both a fairy tale villain and an enchantress, daring to live outside of the norms of society. In witchcraft there is no dogma but there is always ritual, where witches work with the forces of nature to re-enchant the world. As contemporary society shifts and expands, a larger space for the witch is being created, allowing witchcraft to become more normalized than ever. Social media and online spaces have made it easier for witches to build community. They gather to share knowledge, celebrate holidays, perform rituals, and cast spells. Although it is highly unlikely they will be hanged for practicing witchcraft in the United States, the accusation of witchcraft is still used in many parts of the world to enable oppression, the seizure of property, and to justify murder. The United Nations officials have reported a rise in women killed for witchcraft across the globe over the last decade. Despite the continued condemnation of the witch, the ever defiant other continues to practice their craft.
In 2019 I began documenting self-identifying witches in the United States. For this ongoing project, I invite each witch to share a part of their practice with me. If you identify as a witch and would like to be included in the project, please email me at Allison@Allison-Stewart.com
Interviews are below the photographs.
