Realized on occasion of ICA LA’s spring 2026 Speaking in Tongues exhibition, this fully illustrated catalogue features an in-depth analysis of the artworks on view, along with commissioned and newly published texts that situate the exhibition’s themes and featured artistic practices within their broader social, political, and historical contexts. The publication includes a curatorial essay by Amanda Sroka; an experimental text by author and poet Jackie Wang based on her research into Islamic and Christian mystical traditions and her ongoing exploration of the mysticism of everyday life; a commissioned essay by religious studies scholar, author, and artist Ashon T. Crawley reflecting on his own experience of Black Pentecostal traditions and rituals; and a commissioned essay by Indigenous producer, story archivist, curator, sound artist, and writer Ginger Dunnill on expanded ideas of relational and ancestral knowledge. Individual artist texts were written by Sroka as well as Anne Ellegood, Asuka Hisa, and Emilia Shaffer-Del Valle.

Adding to the conceptual vitality of the exhibition, the design of the Speaking in Tongues publication was led by L.A.-based graphic designer and art director Symrin Chawla. Working intimately with artists, curators, filmmakers, and musicians, Chawla’s projects reflect her thoughtful, improvisational, and Spirit-led approach. Her design for Speaking in Tongues was inspired by historical religious scriptures like illuminated manuscripts and Medieval devotional texts, so much so that the publication itself is an object that is intended not just to be read, but to be held, turned, cut, and folded. Further and much valued editorial support for the catalogue was provided by Barlo Perry. (edited)