Unaloam

Unaloam

Various sizes, ~10" x ~18", Neon-Filled Glass, Acrylic + Door-Frame

Unaloam are a common symbol in Thai culture. Some say they came about from an amalgamation of the symbols for 1 and 9, which are important numbers in Thai culture. Unaloam are used in yant, which I always think of as written and printed spells, though I know that isn't exactly right. Yant are tattooed on the body, inscribed into glyphs above a house's front door, and used in jewelry and other imagery. They bring protection, fortune, and other good things.

At the time that I made these, I was obsessing over doors—as you may know if you've seen my TikTok—and I was moving into a new house. My girlfriend at the time also moved into a new house. I wanted to cast a spell of protection and good fortune for all of us and our new homes.