Newcomers to the study of Western esotericism may be forgiven for thinking that esotericism is indeed just “for white folks.” The vast majority of scholar-ship in the field of Western esotericism has consistently overlooked black esoteric figures, movements, and currents, despite the fact that African Americans have been among the most innovative and influential practitioners in the history of...
Abstract Since 2001, visual artist Ellen Gallagher has been working on “Watery Ecstatic,” an ongoing, expansive project that depicts real and imaginary underwater life through drawings, films, reliefs, and paintings. Thus far, this series—indeed, Gallagher’s oeuvre—has not been studied by scholars of religion. Arguing that the series provokes an extended conversation about mysticism,...