An installation by Romain Tardy
Music by Loran Delforge
Production: Jardins Synthétiques Festival
Museum of antiquities, Toulouse, France, October 2012.
Paganism (from Latin paganus, meaning "country dweller", "rustic") is a blanket term, typically used to refer to religious traditions which are polytheistic or indigenous. It is primarily used in a historical context, referring to Greco-Roman polytheism as well as the polytheistic traditions of Europe and North Africa before Christianization. [Wikipedia]
The mapping installation Pagan was prominently showcased on the main facade of the Museum of Antiquities in Toulouse, located in the southern region of France. The inspiration behind this captivating installation stemmed from a remarkable sculpture—a bacchanalian head dating back to the 3rd century (refer to picture below). Discovered towards the end of the 17th century, the sculpture has long been exhibited as a prominent representation of an ancient pagan idol.
Exploring the concept of polymorphism inherent in ancient gods, the installation ingeniously integrates the sculpture into a structure composed of an abstract network of straight lines. This integration renders the head almost imperceptible, inviting viewers to uncover its hidden presence. Through the interplay of light, a myriad of patterns emerge, ranging from abstract constellations to enigmatic symbols, thereby infusing the entire building with their mysterious allure.
Pagan presents a visually captivating experience that invites viewers to contemplate the interplay between ancient mythologies and contemporary artistic interpretations. By blurring the boundaries between the past and the present, this mapping installation provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of antiquity in a thought-provoking and visually stunning manner.
