The Venomist Sausage Party by Jam Westwood

Part reptile, part mammal, the venomists were God-made for their unique milk: An elixir granting mortality should the Gods choose to drink it. Milking was excruciating for venomists and reproduction biologically yearned for, yet males were never made. They grew increasingly despondent and depressed until one day, they finally escaped their life of exploitation, hiding in dark caves, deep within the mortal world. They emerged only for their annual “sausage party,” which took place during the “General Meeting of Minds.” This celestial event bound all Gods to the stars until sunrise and thus provided the venomists with one safe night of freedom, out in the open on mortal soil. They celebrated with their favourite food, and although harmless and well-intentioned, this social gathering terrified men who were fearful of symbolism and ashamed of where their imaginations took them. Many vowed to kill the venomists, while others secretly enjoyed the spectacle from the shadows, exploiting them in new ways.

Glazed stoneware, slip and sgraffito decoration with 24ct gold lustre.

45H  x 36W cm

2024