The Swiss psychologist Carl G. Jung introduced the concept of the collective unconscious: a universal repository of archetypes, symbols, and images that are present in all human cultures. While Jesus Christ and the Greek goddess Persephone differ in their origins and cultural context, both contain similar archetypal themes and symbols. By examining the similarities between the stories of Christ and Persephone, it becomes possible to gain deeper insights into our soul and the universal human experience.

Both Christ and Persephone descend into hell and subsequently make their Ascension to the heavens. This journey can be seen as a metaphor for the path towards wholeness. The Descent into the underworld symbolizes the dark night of the soul, where one must confront one's fears, doubts and insecurities. The Ascension marking the triumph over darkness, symbolizes the integration of one's obscure aspects and the attainment of a more mature and holistic self.

This exhibition presents a series of artworks by Ekatherina Savtchenko and Elisabeth Skogland around the themes of Christ, Persephone and the Union of Opposites. In order to make a powerful symbolic imagery, the central pieces of the exhibition, namely the paintings of Christ and Persephone, were sent into Space with hydrogen balloons. Their whole journey into the cosmos was filmed, resulting in two extraordinary films re-enacting the Ascension of both figures. Following the burst of the balloon, a parachute allowed both paintings to come back to Earth undamaged.

This is the first time since the stories of Christ and Persephone were written that their Ascension into the heavens is physically reenacted.

Paris - Hôtel de l'Industrie 75006 - April 5th to April 6th 2023
Paris - Colombian Consulate 75008 - April 20th to April 30th 2023
New York City - Spring Street, Soho - May 18th to June 7th 2023
The Hague - Alliance Française de La Haye - April 4th to April 30th 2024

If you are interested in acquiring one of these artworks, please send an email to stanislas@jerichofineart.fr or contact the following number: +33 6 75 19 48 21.