Ruchama Noorda

Ornamental Hermit

In late July and early August 2020 an ornamental hermitage built from compacted earth-bags and discarded home improvement detritus (collected on the streets during the pandemic) was constructed at the centre of the Tumulus , slightly sunk into the earth. The public is invited to the opening ceremony on Monday, 21st September.

This one-person hide-out and end times shelter is fronted by a door with a two-way peephole. Here in the city centre, visitors are invited to step back, turn in, turn off and savour solitary time. The tumulus hut is a place of contemplation, introspection and retreat: an opportunity for a re-set.

Pouches containing a selection of the healing herbs grown on the Tumulus mound will be hung at the entrance and are available for use. Visitors can choose a mix suited to their immediate needs: to counter sadness & loneliness, to channel rage and anger,  to listen to their inner voices or to realize their inner wishes, to sink into the ground or to tune out into silence.

The tumulus hut is a place to pause, turn inward, and prepare for what is coming.