The inclination we have to ascribe human characteristics, emotions, or intentions to entities that are not human has a long history dating back to ancient civilisations from around the world — with early, well-preserved, material examples hailing from regions spanning Western Europe, Egypt and Greece, to the Indian subcontinent and China. Across diverse cultures, human…
Under the directorship of Patrick Lee, Frieze Seoul returns for its second edition, hosted by COEX in the Gangnam district of the city from 6–9 September 2023. Taking place alongside Kiaf SEOUL, the fair celebrates the South Korean capital’s creative communities with a series of ambitious projects and collaborations. This year’s fair brings together more…
Food has long been political and a catalyst for change. What we eat is deeply tied to culture and identity; through preserving culinary traditions, communities assert their character and counter cultural assimilation. Throughout history, food has been used as a symbol of resistance. Boycotts of certain products have been employed as a way to protest…
Artist-in-residence programmes, or artist residencies, encompass a wide variety of undertakings involving collaborations between artists and an array of hosts, spanning institutions, private organisations, and communities. In addition to other resources, these structures act as avenues to furnish artists with physical workspaces along with fresh viewpoints to enhance their creative pursuits. In today’s context, artist…
Archaeology, the study of humanity’s history through the analysis of material culture, has captivated the human imagination for centuries. Unearthing ancient artefacts, revealing lost civilisations, and deciphering the mysteries of our ancestors’ lives have all contributed to a richer understanding of our collective heritage. As the field has evolved, so too have conversations about the…
Hailing from South Africa, Cape Town-based photographer and artist Michael Oliver Love joins the roster of creatives who have undertaken residencies at Grand Cayman estate, Palm Heights. In this sun-drenched photo series, Love seamlessly celebrates the mesmeric call of the Caribbean Sea and the discerning design of the hotel, conceived by Palm Heights’ Founder and…
Numerous myths and legends surround the origins of silk production. According to the writings of Confucius, a tale unfolds around 3000 BCE protagonised by Empress Leizu. It is said that a silkworm’s cocoon accidentally fell into the Empress’ teacup. Curious, the fourteen-year-old girl started unravelling the cocoon’s threads while retrieving it from her beverage. As…
Instagram account @ritualstudies investigates diverse and esoteric histories, offering unique insights into ritual practices from across the globe. From Amazigh body adornments, Māori greetings and Lithuanian foodways, to Turkish tombstones and Tajik wedding ceremonies, the feed is an aesthetic odyssey as well as a trove of cultural insight. Among the page’s recent highlights, discover the…