Drawing from Greek mythology, "Cassandra the Mystic Marvel" explores the power of prophecy, and the struggle for recognition and respect.
Cassandra, the daughter of King Priam and Queen Hecuba of Troy, was blessed with the gift of prophecy by Apollo. But when she spurned his advances, he cursed her so that no one would believe her prophecies. This tragic tale of a misunderstood prophetess, whose warnings of impending doom were tragically ignored, serves as the foundation for the artwork.
The story behind the artwork presents an alternate reality where Cassandra is not only believed but sought after for her prophetic abilities. However, this Cassandra is haunted by the pain and rejection experienced by her parallel self in another dimension. Compelled to take revenge for the disbelief and disregard her parallel self faced, she imposes visions of the future on those who did not seek it out, deluding herself into thinking that this act of revenge is just and true.
The artwork challenges the historical silencing of Cassandra's prophetic voice and the dismissal of female wisdom in ancient societies. By reimagining Cassandra's story, the artwork serves as a metaphor for the women who have been cast aside, their talents and truths disregarded. In giving Cassandra her due, the artwork sheds light on the systemic oppression of the marginalised and the power of resilience. In giving her revenge, the uncomfortable nature of trauma responses are cooked in a crucible of smoke, mirrors, potions and prophecies...