Plaster, acrylic paints, silver leaf, polymer clay, oil paints

18x25x6 cm

2020

"Contemporary Medusa" is my artistic reinterpretation of the Greek myth surrounding the infamous Gorgon. Imagine Medusa, once just an average beautiful girl that caught the eye of Poseidon. But, Poseidon's advances weren't welcome. Medusa, upholding tradition ("no sin before the wedding"), tried to escape his persistent courtship, even seeking sanctuary in Athena's temple.

Yet, Greek mythology takes a turn: Poseidon finds and violates Medusa within Athena's sacred walls. Shockingly, it was Athena who then cursed Medusa with her extravagant "Serpentarium" hairstyle - transforming her hair into a writhing mass of snakes and making anyone who beholds her turn to stone. Victim-blaming and ancient women's solidarity at its finest!

"Contemporary Medusa" challenges viewers to reconsider Medusa's portrayal. Is she truly a monster or a victim of unjust punishment?

This wall relief sculpture features a Venetian-style mask or woman's face from plaster, painted with acrylic, and adorned with silver leaf (Dutch metal). Hand-sculpted hyper-realistic flowers—white lily, purple rose, bellflowers, fleur-d'orange, and eucalyptus—surround the central figure, adding depth and symbolism to the narrative.
Through this contemporary medium and subject matter, I aim to provoke reflection on enduring mythological themes and the complexities of Medusa's story, inviting viewers to engage with the intersection of ancient lore and modern interpretation. Not everything we used to believe to be wrong is actually wrong. The modern world should review its obsolete beliefs and superstitions.

Norval Morrisseau Award for Visual Arts 2023 Longlist (Surrey Muse Art, BC, Canada) – “Contemporary Medusa”