Folklore, Mythology and Tradition: Five Must-see Shows at London Gallery Weekend

London Gallery Weekend highlights exhibitions exploring folklore and mythology with a focus on female artists. Notable shows include Anna Perach’s exploration of identity, Francis Upritchard’s playful sculptures, Soyoung Hyun’s memory-themed works, and Claudia Alarcón’s traditional textiles. The late Emily Kam Kngwarray’s legacy also features prominently, showcasing the importance of cultural narratives in contemporary art.

London Gallery Weekend is set to showcase a vibrant revival of folklore, mythology, and traditions through a series of unique exhibitions. Several artists, both indigenous and those inspired by various traditions, are exploring how these ancient narratives influence contemporary art. This year’s highlights include shows featuring female artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, weaving together tales from across the globe—from Argentina to South Korea.

One key exhibition is that of Anna Perach, running until June 24 at Richard Saltoun Gallery. Perach, who is originally from Ukraine, draws on philosopher Henri Bergson’s concept of empathy, encapsulated in the idea of a “leap of sympathy.” Her exhibit features tufted sculptures and drawings that delve into identity, gender and the influence of folklore. Central to her exhibition is “The Uncanny Valley,” a curious array of tufted heads, inspired by the Russian tale of Vasilisa the Beautiful, that invites viewers to question the nature of gaze and identity. This show will later move to East Gallery in Norwich in September 2025.

Over at Kate MacGarry, Francis Upritchard’s show,”Sing Siren,” runs from June 6 to July 12 and boasts darkly whimsical sculptures crafted from various materials like rubber, bronze, and textiles. The New Zealand artist has a distinctive approach, blending inspirations from ancient myths to sci-fi, and often describes her style as “magpieing.” Her works include a reinterpretation of Medusa, swapping traditional snakes for eels, and references to mythical sirens, all while playing with the theme of memory and how we perceive bodies.

Soyoung Hyun presents her debut UK solo show at IMT Gallery until June 29, featuring works that navigate personal and cultural memory. Her series “Purification box” comprises clay vessels designed to externalise trauma, while the “Shadow” series represents Korean folklore’s perspective on shadows as symbols of existence. Hyun creatively uses clay to represent shadows, giving those fleeting moments a sense of permanence and weight—highlighting the intersection of presence and absence.

Cecilia Brunson Projects showcases “Choreography of the Imagination,” featuring the work of Claudia Alarcón and the Silät collective, until July 25. Alarcón, an indigenous artist from Argentina, explores weaving as a mode of communication, presenting textiles that encapsulate subconscious messages. The geometric designs originate from the chaguar plant and reflect a deep-rooted South American tradition, further solidified through their acknowledgment at last year’s Venice Biennale.

Lastly, the late Emily Kam Kngwarray’s works will be exhibited at Pace Gallery until August 8, coinciding with her expansive show at Tate Modern. Kngwarray, a revered figure in Australian art, was a custodian of ancestral knowledge and tradition. Despite starting her artistic journey relatively late in life, she managed to produce around 3,000 works. The pieces on display at Pace will highlight her evolving style, showcasing the spiritual and cultural narratives integral to Aboriginal history, alongside contemporary interpretations of her impact.

The London Gallery Weekend is shining a spotlight on the rich tapestry of culture and tradition through the lens of modern art, with a particular focus on female artists. Exhibitions feature works that echo ancient narratives while addressing contemporary themes—identity, memory, and culture. Artists like Perach, Upritchard, Hyun, Alarcón, and Kngwarray collectively present a vital reminder of the relevance of folklore and tradition in today’s world.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com