Curated by Jessica Tawczynski (MFA ’17 2D)

PANDORA explores the transformative power of curiosity, drawing parallels between the myth of Pandora and the human quest for knowledge. The exhibition showcases eight artists whose works depict the evolution and phases of curiosity (innocence, discovery, caution, reflection, wisdom), emphasizing the role of myth-making in shaping our understanding of the consequences of unchecked exploration. By combining scientific themes with artistic expression, PANDORA highlights the delicate balance between discovery and responsibility, inviting viewers to reflect on the Pandora’s Box within themselves.

The exhibiting artists employ processes that capture both the emotional and intellectual dimensions of curiosity’s metamorphosis. This symbiotic relationship provokes contemplation on the delicate balance between the mythical and the scientific in shaping our worldviews. Each work contributes to a narrative landscape within the gallery, highlighting the diversity in artistic expression and interpretation and transporting the audience to a space of engagement and reflection about the complexities of human curiosity.

Symbolic geometries, storytelling, and the phenomenological, intertwined with scientific motifs, explore physical nature and psyche, illustrating the enduring power of myth to shape our understanding of the ramifications tied to exploration. By showcasing this amalgamation of art and science, Pandora: Metamorphosis of Curiosity fosters a nuanced dialogue about the role of myth in framing our approach to scientific inquiry and the responsibilities entwined with unveiling the mysteries of the Universe.