SHELBY WOODINGS

When we look at religious texts and mythologies around the globe, they often point us to synchronicities in historical, geographical, and astrological phenomena. These synchronicities provide the framework for conspiracy. My work investigates these synchronicities in mythology, religion, and anomaly to blur the lines of fact and fiction into conspiracy. In the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art’s show, “Everything is Connected: Art and Conspiracy”, other artists share their views on the synchronicities that distort the typical narrative of reality. Some artists express this by using documentation collage to give the viewer a paper trail and other artists like Jim Shaw portray their version of what extra-terrestrial life may look like.

By meditating on alternative theories, I create images to imagine a world where mythology, religion, and fringe science come together. Symbols, charts, mythological creatures, and maps all serve to explore counter narratives that explain theories for the creation and power of humans. I am inspired by artists such as Mark Lombardi, who use charts, graphs, and data to show connections. I am also interested in the signs, symbols, and mythological fantasy art portrayed by artists such as Marlene Seven Bremner and Jim Shaw. This body of work serves as a response to the conversations of conspiracy proposed in the Metropolitan’s show. In conclusion, it is my hope that this body of work inspires others to broaden their horizons into the unknown.

“Untitled” (Excerpt from Illuminated Manuscript), ink on black paper, 12 x 9”, 2023

“Untitled” (Excerpt from Illuminated Manuscript), ink on bristol paper, 12 x 9”, 2023

“Untitled” (Excerpt from Illuminated Manuscript), toner on paper, 12 x 9”, 2023

BA

Arlette Alvarez

Elena Arellano

Justice Ballard-Brown

Sabrina Barragan

Cristina Bejar

Carlton Justin Borillo

Richard Conners

Leslie Figueroa

Maria Pizano Gallegros

Valarie Hill

Neang Narkary

Peyton Sousa

Sahvana Villalpando