ONLINE PROGRAM

Contemporary Art & Classical Myth, Part II: Myth as Method & Performing Myth

Jennie Hirsh, professor of modern and contemporary art at the Maryland Institute College of Art

Building on the foundation of "Myth as Meaning" and "Myth as Medium," this lecture explores the value of classical mythology today. In that vein, I argue that myth offers - and historically has - a uniquely creative critical methodology for understanding artistic practice and its impact. To better understand this premise, we will review case studies dedicated to Duane Hanson, Bas Jan Ader, Vlatka Horvat, Francis Alÿs, and Bill Viola. Finally, the writing and performance work of artist-critic Johanna Frueh offers the opportunity to imagine how mythological self-expression can open new, and in this case, especially feminist avenues for living.

$15 fee for guests and subscribers (no fee for members)