THE OLD GODS

BA Thesis Project

The Old Gods draws on mythological stories and archetypes to depict symbols of power through human forms. These figures have an air of religious icons, bringing to mind practices such as ancient Greek and Roman worship but also the more modern religious context of Christianity’s prevalence in western culture. Through these images I beg the questions: What power do these religious influences hold over us? Why do some religious figures hold more power over us than others? Who doesn’t have power in a modern Christian context?

By referencing mythological western history and epic painting through a realistic, detailed style, as well as Christian-centric renaissance and baroque style portraiture through figural compositions, I ask the reader to question the place held for them within the modern Christian traditions, and whether or not they agree to accept that place. As a Christian and a queer woman these are questions I have had to ask myself, and these paintings are my response.