Atlas Obscura (The Dictaean Cave)
2019 - 2022
Caves have long held a significant place in the realms of myths, legends, and ancient beliefs. They serve as potent symbols allowing the human mind to explore the frontiers of possibility, the undiscovered, and the transcendental. Within this series, the portrayal of fantastical realms and supernatural domains serves as visual allegories, reflecting individuals' perspectives on reality and their beliefs regarding what is plausible and conceivable.
Ancient civilizations perceived the universe as a realm inhabited by spirits, deities, and mystical entities intertwined with nature and the cosmos. Their narratives, rich with these realities, shaped their understanding of the world. In the face of mystery and the unknown, humanity has spun tales and constructed narratives to decipher the enigmatic, attributing meanings to that which lies beyond comprehension.
Employing image-editing software, this series amalgamates multiple layers of digitally generated impressions, culminating in compositions printed on materials like aluminum or polyester. These digital drafts undergo further adaptation through hand-drawn motifs using wax pastels and / or aquarelle, fostering an otherworldly atmosphere. The addition of structured Plexiglas as a surface layer creates visual distortions, inviting viewers to contemplate the contained visualizations and ponder notions of perception and dimensional possibility.
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As a side note: the 'Dictaean cave' stands among several believed to be the sanctuary or birthplace of Zeus in Greek mythology. This cave, nestled in the mountains of Crete, is steeped in folklore, where the nurturing of infant Zeus by Amalthea, the she-goat nurse, is said to have taken place. It's within these ancient stories that legends of Zeus's upbringing, the creation of his iconic thunder-shield, and the cornucopia find their roots, manifesting in archaeological remnants that attest to the cave's historical significance as a site of worship and reverence.