A new art show in St. Petersburg invites future generations to reflect on our society now in the classical backdrop of Ancient Greece and Rome. Visitors are asked to put themselves in the shoes of individuals living in 3115, more than a millennium in the future, while they view artwork from our time.
The ultimate result is a set of sculptures that appear to be old but are actually modern electrical instruments that are used to critically reflect on our way of life. What if mythological figures like Homer’s Sisyphus, the Roman goddess Venus, or the early Christian Saint Sebastian had access to today’s technology?
The recently launched exhibition “A Look from the Future: Excavations of the Lucca Temple of the XXI Century” exemplifies this uncommon blend of antiquity and contemporary. Sculptures in the classical style from Ancient Greece and Rome encourage viewers to see the world through the eyes of the man of the future.
The Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art in Saint Petersburg is hosting the exhibition. The show, which was created by the Italian duo Dionigi Biolatti and Gualtiero Jacopo Marchioretto, also known as ‘The Bounty Killart,’ imitates the atmosphere of an ancient, dilapidated temple discovered by scientists in 3115, and gives a comprehensive idea of people’s habits, ideals, worries, and dreams of the twenty-first century.
The artists ponder today’s problems and mock the Tinder hunt for a partner, digitally modifying our faces for popular acceptability, the need for co-dependent relationships, the enthusiasm for consumption rather than invention, and the meaninglessness of political protests. Venus is seen here eating a cheeseburger while watching Game of Thrones on her laptop. The essay explores the reasons for the series’ enduring success.
According to the creators, the success of the film was due to the numerous scenes of violence and half-naked performers. The exhibition is divided into two halls and features 31 sculptures. Some items are coated with resin, while others are constructed of plaster, copper, or polyester.
Most visitors are inspired by the artworks’ originality and fresh perspective. The show will be on display until January 9, 2022.