Opening on August 3, SCI-FI: Mythologies Transformed envisions a feminine science fiction future.
SCI-FI: Mythologies Transformed is a groundbreaking exhibition developed in collaboration with Singapore’s ArtScience Museum, offering a unique look at science fiction from the perspectives of women artists and collectives in the Asia Pacific region.
Opening on August 3 at Science Gallery Melbourne, this exhibition merges Western science fiction narratives with Eastern spiritual traditions that have evolved over millennia, and for the first time in Australia, includes First Nations perspectives and knowledge.
SCI-FI: Mythologies Transformed
- Science Gallery, Melbourne Connect, at/114 Grattan St, Parkville
- Opens Saturday, August 3
- Entry is free
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This exhibition transitions smoothly between ancient mythologies, contemporary art, literature and post-modern cinema. It emphasizes the voices of women and alternative perspectives, celebrating the imaginative worlds, futuristic visions and fantastical realities of artists who advocate for a more inclusive future.
“First launched to great acclaim last year, the exhibition reveals new viewpoints on science fiction by highlighting its connections to Asian philosophy and mythology. We are thrilled to present works by predominantly women artists from the Asia Pacific, inspired by the region’s history and culture, alongside pieces by First Nations artists who draw from their rich cultural traditions,” says Dr Ryan Jefferies, Director of Science Gallery at the University of Melbourne.
Highlights of the exhibition include Mariko Mori’s video piece, Miko No Inori, where she portrays a mystical figure performing a ritual that invites viewers to transcend between worlds. Patty Chang’s Mountain (Shangri-La) features a mirrored, three-dimensional artwork that reflects light and emits energy into its surroundings.
Red Silk of Fate by Sputniko! and Napp Studios reimagines an East Asian myth with genetically mutated silkworms producing silk infused with oxytocin. The House of Natural Fiber’s Galactica V.2 Dharma Garden combines Hindu philosophical themes with science fiction visuals.
Moon Kyungwon and Jeon Joonho’s video installation, The Ways of Folding Space and Flying, explores the future of art and creativity in a water-covered world. Paola Balla’s immersive film installation, Mok Mok Murrup Yakuwa, references the Wemba Wemba story of Mok Mok, a sovereign goddess.
Etsuko Ichihara’s multimedia installation, Namahage in Tokyo, modernizes Japanese folklore, transforming the Namahage into a futuristic guardian enforcing social media etiquette.
The exhibition also features a cinema section with works by Cao Fei, Club Ate, Debbie Ding, Fei Yi Ning, Jen Rae & Claire G. Coleman, Kara Chin, Nguyen Trinh Thi, and Xin Liu, alongside an interactive timeline exploring the evolution of science fiction from the 19th century to today.
For more information, head here.
