Contemporary Myth
Cycladic Women
A myth is a false story
that illumines
an important truth.
- Regina Coupar
Artist Statement
In ancient times a common mythology tied together peoples of a single tribe, helping to separate them from others. Their myths contributed to an understanding of their origins and their purpose in the world.
Today, as our access to diverse cultures continues to grow, we are more aware of our shared responsibility in a global community. In contextualizing our lives, we draw not only from personal genealogies, but from a collective global heritage rooted in our deepest humanity. For us, mythology is eclectic. We take bits from here and there, putting the pieces together in new ways that help us make sense of our changing world.
This exhibition was influenced by a recent trip to antiquities museums in Greece. There I discovered a meaningful connection between the ancients and the contemporary world in which we live. While the world is different now (due mostly to advances in science and technology) the bigger questions of who we are and why we're here remain much the same.
Looking at clay vessels and stone gods that were created over five thousand years ago, I was taken by the simplicity, stability and fragility of the shapes, and wanted to replicate that tension in my work. My passion for the colours and textures of the American southwest (especially Arizona) resulted in the decision to make many of the pieces in this exhibition there, employing materials and techniques from that part of the world.
Arizona Altar with stones from the south shore of Crete
Square Pegs and Round Holes
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Book of Life
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The Gathering of the Gods