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The artist wrote accompanying mythology for each Stupad sculpture:
“Once a year, the community appoints a Stupad to be surrendered on behalf of people’s collective failings. It is carried through the streets, accompanied by music and dance, celebrated with a feast, commemorated by sharing stories of past mistakes. Before being solemnly put on a small handmade raft and sent out with the currents, people break small pieces from it and put these in their pockets as a reminder. In the old times, these Stupads used to be burnt, and the ashes were smeared across faces. It was believed to protect against both future arrogance and despair. Sending the Surrendering Stupad out on the ocean waves brings renewal only when the community is ready to come together to build something better in place of the old mistakes. When they are able to reflect on their shortcomings, the community can replace the surrendered Stupad and begin to thrive.” —Timea Tihanyi