Dark summonings are stereotypically portrayed in sinister environments, as if the nature of the things being called upon from the other world requires a mirroring surrounding for them to feel homely.  In this image by @ghostshoes the uncanny feeling comes from the clash between the wealthy interior of this European upper-class family's house, the calm composure of the woman reading her newspaper and the apparition of a black goat, elegantly sitting of the floor. Pointing out to a certain normalization or even sophistication in the manner of the modern "summonings", chilling questions are posed. 

Part 1 in a series. A cheeky investigation into casual afternoon summonings and other dark arts, etc. Big thanks to @TheGaloisCxn for insight and assistance in the ~creative process~

Satanic Panic (1 of 3)

Dream - knife or scissors?

Someone has stolen my third eye

DOOM

Two Carrots and One Lemon - still life

Santa Muerte (Detail)

"All media have a suicide pact" (E. Jensen and B. LaBelle). 

In 1995, science fiction writer Bruce Sterling made a profound observation about the nature of media. He described it as an extension of our senses, a mode of consciousness, and extra-somatic memory. This highlights the critical role that media plays in shaping our understanding of the world and our place in it. It also emphasizes the importance of preserving media for future generations, as it represents a crystallization of human thought that survives the death of the individual. 

As we continue to navigate the digital realm, blockchain technology may prove to be an essential tool for preserving our cultural heritage and ensuring the longevity of human thought. Nonetheless, in the (inter)net of things, death remains a chilling contract that slips into that extra-somatic memory, despite it having seemingly gotten rid of the shell of the media. Often disguised as rather seductively vivid, psychedelic imagery, edgy dreams or dangerous proximities, it smells death even from the screen. 

Satanic Panic (1 of 3)

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