Forget stuffy museums – Mona's "Heavenly Beings" exhibition throws open the doors to a vibrant world of faith and art. Forget just looking at icons; prepare to immerse yourself in centuries of stories, symbols, and spiritual encounters.
More Than Colors on Canvas: Journey through 140+ icons, each whispering tales from the 14th to 19th centuries. From Crete's vibrant Pietà, where Mary's faded purple robe hints at imperial lineage, to the electrifying scene of St. George vanquishing the dragon, each brushstroke ignites your imagination.
Technology Enhances, Not Overpowers: Mona's Mona O device isn't just a fancy gadget; it's a key that unlocks the secrets within each icon. With a tap, you delve deeper into the stories, symbolism, and history, transforming passive observation into active exploration.
History Whispers, Icons Respond: The exhibition isn't just about pretty pictures. Walk through the "iconoclasm" period, where these sacred artworks faced destruction, and then witness their stunning revival during the Palaiologan Renaissance. Each stroke becomes a testament to artistic resilience and faith.
Heavenly Beings, Not Just a Title: These aren't mere paintings but portals to the divine. In Orthodox liturgy, icons act as "windows to heaven," venerated figures bridging the earthly and spiritual gap. The exhibition invites you to engage all your senses – sight, sound, even smell – in a multi-layered experience that awakens contemplation and reflection.
Your Journey Continues: Don't let the exhibition be the end. Mona encourages you to continue your exploration. Delve into the theology behind the icons, discover their role in shaping the Orthodox faith, and perhaps even create your own personal connection with these timeless treasures.
EXHIBITION
Heavenly Beings: Icons of the Christian Orthodox World
30 September 2023 – 1 April 2024
Museum of Old and New Art, Hobart
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