New Ancients

A myth is defined as a “traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or  [explains] a natural or social phenomenon, and typically [involves] supernatural beings or events.” Over centuries, myths have been a sacred means for storytelling, communication and establishing connections between people. Myths express and reflect on fragments of cultural, socio-political, ecological and internal states of being. Whether it be stories to explain the changing of the seasons, the growth of crops and floods or epic tales of adventure, love, jealousy and betrayal, myths have helped us to understand the needs of societies as well as individuals by expressing their innermost turmoil, passions and desires.  

‘New Ancients’ is a group exhibition of artists whose work explores how myths contribute to our understanding of the world we live in and how we interact with others. These artists recognise that in a globalised world that increasingly relies on a voracious fast-paced techno-capitalist system and in a time where global warming, ecological disaster and dividing right-wing politics increasingly take the lead, the intimate art of telling stories through mythologies is more vital than ever. Many ancient myths are primarily concerned with the bringing together and entwining of the natural world, the animal kingdom and human society. Throughout the exhibition, such myths and more are explored to try and affect a reunification of our seemingly evermore dividing and fragile world.  

Myths also reveal to us that we are inextricably linked to our ancestors. Many of the drives, desires and existential concerns of the characters in these stories are still as relevant today. These myths remind us of what it means to be human, and in that sense, can be extremely useful tools in the deconstruction and critical analysis of the cultural, socio-political and internal conflicts of the present. Throughout the exhibition, artists unfold new subjectivities through mythmaking and reflect upon current socio-political issues by diving into their unique histories, ancestries and selves.

Curated by Ell Pennick and Sayori Radda