Heart, Eye, Brain, Spirit: Reconsidering Ex-votos through the Lens of Psychology and Healing

The paintings we call “ex-votos” are often considered from the perspective of their assigned label. The artwork was created in fulfillment of a promise to pay homage after the prayerful request was granted. But what are the benefits of the process of creating ex-voto imagery? How do the acts of painting and narrative benefit the artist? What are the effects of presenting this story to the faithful’s community?

This paper argues that while ex-votos demonstrate devotion and gratitude, they are also imbued with a sense of closure. I examine studies that shed light on the psychological benefits of revisiting traumatic incidents and documenting their conclusion in image and word. Further, many ex-votos are displayed in community settings, ensuring that the artist’s experience is seen, and the community bears witness, expanding their consciousness with the creation of new neural pathways enabling the viewers to believe that miracles are possible.