⤣ SERIESGods and Titans: Atlas
In his portrayal of Atlas, Dominic Harris explores the symbolism of the Titan's burden and draws connections to modern-day struggles faced by individuals and society as a whole. Atlas, known for holding the heavens away from the Earth, is often depicted carrying the globe, signifying the immense weight he bears. Harris' depiction of Atlas serves as a metaphor for the burdens and responsibilities that many people grapple with in today's fast-paced, complex world.
By humanising Atlas and animating his struggle, Harris encourages viewers to empathise with the Titan's plight, reflecting on their own challenges and the weight they carry on a daily basis. This could encompass the stress of work, family life, maintaining relationships, or even the emotional toll of living in an increasingly connected yet divided world.
Harris’ interpretation of Atlas also alludes to the broader societal issues that impact us collectively. For example, we see him impatiently tapping his feet, or looking at his wrist as if to tell the time. In a world grappling with climate change, political strife, and social inequality, the burden of Atlas can be seen as a symbol of our shared responsibility to address these pressing challenges. Harris' work compels viewers to consider the role they play in shaping the world and the impact of their actions on future generations.
By connecting the ancient story of Atlas to contemporary struggles, Dominic Harris demonstrates the enduring relevance of mythology in understanding the human condition. Harris’ work serves as a reminder that, much like Atlas, we all carry our own burdens and responsibilities, and we all feel the weight of the world on our shoulders. It is through recognizing and confronting these challenges that we can grow, both as individuals and as a society.
The Collection
Images
Information
Year:
2023
Edition:
Edition of 8 + 2 Artist Proofs + 2 Museum Proofs
Materials:
code, electronics, LCD screen, sensors, aluminium
Details:
Dimensions (Metric):
65 (W) x 106 (H) x 12 (D) cm
Dimensions (imperial):
25.5 (W) x 41.9 (H) x 4.7 (D) inches
Commissioned by:
Context
Pursuing his long held fascination with the power of narratives, Dominic Harris breathes life into the statues of Zeus, Poseidon, and Atlas, reimagining these mythological figures in a more humanised form. Harris' approach is to combine creative exploration and storytelling, challenging traditional depictions of these gods and titans while offering a fresh perspective on their personalities and desires.
Inspired by this and the way these icons were interpreted over millennia, the triptych of portraits combines these themes by creating lifelike, detailed human forms of these three most identifiable mythological figures. Zeus, holding his iconic lightning bolt, embodies the potential for and consequences of wielding power, urging viewers to reflect on the responsible use of authority in today's world. Poseidon, with his trident and shifting persona, represents the balance between strength and vulnerability, as well as the challenges individuals face in navigating their various roles and responsibilities. Atlas, bearing the weight of the heavens, serves as a powerful metaphor for the personal and societal burdens we all must confront and overcome.
The choice to present such gargantuan icons in their classical marble medium directs the narrative between subject and viewer. Statues by their very nature can portray only one position. As such Harris’s reinventions are revolutionary: these are not statues made human, rather humanised marble statues, complete with the ability to express their ennui, their irritation or otherwise human expression or quirk never before captured in their classical stone memorials.
By imbuing the gods with these more human-like qualities, Harris connects viewers with the stories and emotions of these legendary figures, making them more relatable and accessible. This approach invites audiences to delve deeper into the mythology, fostering a stronger emotional connection to the characters and their narratives.
At the same time, Harris' reinterpretation of these iconic figures serves to challenge traditional depictions and narratives. Through his ground-breaking technique, the artist questions long-held assumptions about these gods, inviting viewers to re-evaluate their own understanding of the mythological figures and their stories that have shaped our collective consciousness.
Harris' work also serves as a commentary on modern society, drawing parallels between the behaviour and emotions of these ancient gods and contemporary human experiences. By exploring universal themes that remain relevant today, the artist inspires his audience to reflect on their own lives and the world around them.
