

Elsa Mora Cuban, 1971
Grounding Objects is a series inspired by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a psychological approach that explores how thoughts shape experiences and emphasizes the importance of reframing perceptions. Drawing from CBT techniques, this work investigates grounding—a practice that engages the senses to anchor individuals in the present moment.
A common grounding exercise involves holding a small object, such as a smooth stone, while focusing on its texture, temperature, and weight. In this series, the artist translates this practice into a tactile and participatory experience through handcrafted ceramic objects. Designed to fit in the palm of the hand, these sculptures invite viewers to close their eyes and explore their surfaces while guided by an auditory recording. Arranged on a table, the objects encourage heightened sensory awareness, fostering introspection and a deeper connection to the present.
By transforming a psychological technique into an interactive artwork, Grounding Objects bridges the gap between therapy and art, offering a meditative space where touch, perception, and emotional anchoring converge. These ceramic pieces, reminiscent of therapeutic grounding stones, become vessels for connection—between body and mind, material and memory.