cho ku rei

Translated from Japanese meaning "Put all the power of the Universe here."

Cho = Connect the
Ku = Power, Energy with
Rei = The Soul, The Universe, The Unity

In healing practice and meditation, to speak, write or perform the sacred character is to invoke Universal power to the subject. The power of the hymen is the subject in this case. The symbolism of the hymen has become associated with the meaning of bodily submission and/or fear when absent under matrimonial requirements. A sacred symbol for power, the incantation and written form of cho ku rei is applied to the hymen and its recipient. Power and autonomy is once again reclaimed to the one who offers the gift of their (re)virginity.

Hymen made of neonatal foreskin cells and bovine collagen.
Final age: 2.5 weeks. Size: 1 ". Preserved by latex and plastic.

Silver culture plate for cell growth. Pre-treated with poly-L-lysine for cell adhesion.

Exterior: beechwood, red paint, shellac, silver appliques.

Interior: culture plate (inside lid), magnifying box, hymen, red velvet, LED lighting.

Click images below for detail on exhibition and tissue culture process.