Workshop Performative Haptic Acts
Internal Workshop on Performative Haptic Acts
led by Bill Rebiger
Shaking hands, laying on of hands, embracing with the arms, and kissing with the lips represent modes of touching that establish physical contact between individuals. In addition, these actions possess symbolic significance in the domains of human communication and ritual. The concept of performative haptic acts places emphasis on the significance of different forms of physical touch in rituals, like, e.g., in healing magic. The performative act in question is situated within a broader sociocultural context, characterized by the pervasive assumption of the efficacy of touch, particularly that performed with the hands. This assumption is exemplified by various performative haptic acts, including blessing, consecration, healing, and cursing. By making physical contact with a person or an object, the practitioner of magic aims to induce a specific outcome, such as healing or harm. From the perspective of the insider, physical contact facilitates the transmission of supernatural power from one entity to another. It is widely accepted that an essential change occurs at the moment of contact between two or more subjects in a ritual act.
The workshop's focal point is on textual and pictorial sources from a variety of traditions and disciplines concerning healing rituals that entail physical contact between the healer and the sick individual.
For further information, please contact Dr. Bill Rebiger.
The Workshop will take place on the 28th of Juli 10am–6pm at the MagEIA House (Room 01.001), Bibrastraße 14.
