The Induction Ceremony

Rudy Shepherd, 2025

On October 16, 2025, at the opening reception for this exhibition, Rudy Shepherd performed The Induction Ceremony, a piece to activate his large sculptures, titled Black Rock Negative Energy Absorbers. To activate the works—turning on their healing powers and their ability to absorb negativity from their viewers—Shepherd inhabited a character he calls “The Healer.” Moving through the gallery and interacting with the sculptures, The Healer brings to life the emotions of this moment. The performance provides an opportunity for the audience to collectively release all the fear and worry we are holding about what is going on in the world so that we can move beyond it and find the space, energy, and courage to go out in the world and do what we can to help. Performers included Rudy Shepherd (as The Healer) and Rhys Shepherd on midi controller, theremin, and various noise-making objects; Elia Einhorn on keys and harmonium; Marcus Braithwaite on drums; and Mark Dixon on bass. Filmed by Christine Dudley (WFU ’26)