SHAN EXPRESSIONS OF POWER AND PROTECTION: BODY DECORATION, CLOTH AND INCANTATION
Speaker: Dr. Susan Conway

This paper examines the process involved in the induction of a shaman in the Shan States and analyses a recent ceremony of protection performed by him. His performance relates to personal charisma and physical strength and also on his reputation among the local population. In a special room set aside for his work, he displays his extensive body decoration and demonstrates his ability to resist pain through a performance of dance and mime.

Once the client has accepted and been drawn into his world, he begins a series of chants and then prescribes a textile printed with a magic formula and a set of charms and potions with strict instructions as to their use.

Introducing
DR. SUSAN CONWAY

Dr Susan Conway has just returned to the UK following a position as Adjunct Professor of Southeast Asian Studies at Parsons, New School University, New York. She has published books and been Curator of exhibitions on Southeast Asian textiles and dress. Details of her publications and other work are available on her web site. susanconway.com She is currently finishing a book on Shan arts and culture to be published by River Books.