VENUE 19 - Jill Martin Boualaxai, 12 Lady Menzies Place
Drawing, Printmaking, Sculpture
Jill Martin Boualaxai’s work is centered around a process-led exploration of the archaeological imaginary, she creates puzzles of the past from fictional futures. Her sculptural installations tell stories of the city, highlighting the misinterpretation of the past in archaeological contexts. Through the fabrication of 'fake' artefacts that resonate with both the ancient past and recent subcultures she invites audiences to consider the relevance of prehistory in contemporary society by creating new mythological narratives.
Her recent area of research is inspired by the myths of Edinburgh, medieval bestiaries, and kitsch festival attire such as animal masks and costumes. Scottish folk stories often blur the link between the natural world and the supernatural, featuring animals with otherworldly and magical powers. Ancient legends speak of Arthur's Seat as a dragon who transformed into a hill, and mythical unicorns can be spotted throughout the city. More recent media and historical archives recount surprising occurrences of unusual animals in Edinburgh, such as an elephant in a tenement flat, a lion walking in Princes Street Gardens, and a llama touring the city in a taxi. For the Colony of Artists 2024, she is planning to display new works inspired by these tales. Her drawings, sculptures, and prints will explore the folklore of Edinburgh and the mythical creatures that are said to roam the city streets.
