A tale of a close bond between mother and daughter, and their inevitable separation.
When I was asked to create a piece of artwork based on a theme of mental health during the festive season, I soon recalled the ancient myth of Persephone, Demeter and Hades...
The Myth & The Art
Persephone is the beloved daughter of Demeter in the ancient Greek myth. The story goes that Persephone was kidnapped by Hades where she was to be Queen of the Underworld for all eternity. When Demeter found out about her daughter’s fate, she took revenge by stopping her duties as goddess of fertility and harvest until her daughter was returned to her.
Hades didn’t want Persephone to be taken from him, and so he tricked Persephone by offering her to eat seeds of the pomegranate, the food of the Underworld. Once she ate these, she would always want to return to him. Eventually, Zeus intervened and decreed that half the months she would spend with her mother in Olympus and the other with Hades, which is how the ancient Greeks explained the changing seasons; When Persephone & Demeter are together, it is spring and summer. Once Persephone returns to Hades, it is then autumn and winter.
My mother and I have always had a strong bond. However, it was always my destiny to leave and explore the world. Especially during the festive season, I miss her deeply. In the past 12 years living outside my own country, I’ve only celebrated Christmas with my family two times. The tale of Demeter and Persephone resounds with me on this personal level of longing in the winter time.
Optimistically, I consider the pomegranate seeds to be like experiences that can only be tasted outside of home and comfort zones. From what I have read, Persephone stepped into her own as Queen of the Underworld. I think it is important and healthy to explore and seek out knowledge and adventure. After all, when we are in these situations we soon find out what we are made of. At the same time, it is natural to miss our loved ones and the comfort they bring.
The collective exhibition will be held from the 4th - 31st of December at the University Library in Msida - Behind the Reference Hall (Old Card Catalogues Area). It is open for everyone to visit.
This event is organised by Betapsi and Hoasa, in collaboration with the UM Library. The exhibition is called 'Artistic Reflections' Navigating Mental Health during the Festive Season.
What do you think of the story of Persephone & Demeter? Leave a comment, and let me know if there is another myth that you like!
Comments