Artifact Articles

Ukulele:

This artifact comes to us from the Hawaiian Islands. It represents the importance of music in my culture. Music is so important for my culture that all of my artifacts could have been musical instruments. In total I know how to play half a dozen instruments including the guitar, the banjo, the piano, the harmonica, the ocarina, and of course, the ukulele. At most family celebrations I am asked to perform at least a few songs and I update my song list every year in preparation for events such as family weddings. This has led to many friends and family calling on me to perform for major life events. I have performed various songs and accompaniments for three weddings, one Eagle Scout court of honor, one christening, two births, and one funeral to date.

Carved Wooden Elephants:

This artifact comes from Egypt and represents my love of travel. In my family, we pride ourselves in learning about new cultures and experiencing as many as we can. My extended family is especially adventurous and occasionally they bring back various gifts for me and my family. This carved statue was one such gift. My aunt gave it to me after spending four weeks in Egypt. The only other countries I have ever been to were Canada and China. But I hope to one day travel all over the world.

Goblet:

This goblet was given to me by my Great Grandmother before she passed away at the age of 104! Family is incredibly important to me, especially when it comes to remembering my deceased relatives. In my family it is customary for everyone to receive one item from a deceased relative. This way, everyone has something to remember those that are no longer with us. I was very close to my Great Grandmother and every time I see this goblet I am reminded of her. Some people may find this practice morbid or off-putting, but for me, this is just a part of the grieving process and gives me a token with which to always remember my family.

Scottish Wool Cap & Keychain:

This cap was made in Scotland and represents the importance of heritage. Like most Americans, my genetic makeup is comprised of several nationalities including Dutch, Swedish, French, Irish, German, and Scottish. However, my namesake (Dowling) is Irish and I take great pride in my cultural heritage. The keychain gives the history of my family name. I have since confirmed that I am in fact a descendent of the O’Dunlaing’s in Ireland. I am constantly researching who I am and where it is I come from. While I might not celebrate every aspect of where I come from or wear traditional attire, I appreciate my origins and I know I would not be who I am without them.

Mask:

The mask represents a great passion in my life. Theatre is very important to me and has become more than a mere hobby. Through the performing arts I have met friends, employers, and other individuals who have changed my life. I have been involved in theatre since high school and see it as one of the best ways for me to express myself. What makes theatre so culturally significant to me is how far its messages can spread. Ideals such as equality, respect, and acceptance are widespread through the theatre community and can be portrayed in the various productions.