• The Loss of the oracle | Ann Shelton

Ann Shelton

The Loss of the oracle | Ann Shelton

$10,500.00

Ann Shelton 

The loss of the oracle (Cornflower, Bluebottle, Hurtsickle, Bachelor’s Buttons, Bluebow, Blue Cap), 2022-ongoing

Archival pigment print on Hahnemühle Bamboo

Artwork: 44 1/8 x 33 1/8 in (112 x 84 cm)
Framed: 45 5/8 x 34 5/8 x 2 1/4 in (116 x 88 x 5 cm)


 

DESCRIPTION/COMMENTARY

The cornflowers in the figure’s hair reference the idiom: “with eyes in the back of her head.” This image alludes to an oracle that can see into the future. Associated with this clairvoyant ability, the cornflower is linked to eyes and to vision. The flower is also the patron flower of Beltane or Mayday and included in many ritual celebrations of the beginning of summer as depicted in films such as “The Wickerman” (1973) and “Midsommer” (2019). Several well-preserved floral collars featuring cornflowers were found in Tutankhamun’s embalming cacheca and date from 1336–1327 B.C.

 

This image depicts an unidentifiable woman who is the physical presence, in this series, of all wise women. A stand-in of sorts, she represents the re-entry of the figure into Shelton’s practice.

SPACE FOR INDEPENDENT FASHION //