Alchemy as Portal

John D. Mitchell and Eileen Standley

Physical codes embedded in our bodies trace our genetic and cultural histories.

There are also codes embedded in our everyday experience, opportunities

presented with every lived experience. Such codes of immediate experience

are seldom recognized or even noticed, except in cases where they bring

about sudden or profound change in our lives. Often seemingly mundane

exchanges can have surprising and life changing effects.

Alchemy is inspired by the Voynich manuscript, a mysterious 16th century

document that was lost and rediscovered at the beginning of the 20th century,

written in a language that is still un-decoded.

Offering a place in time to slow down and receive, the installation induces

a receptive state for the public. It creates a metaphorical doorway to the

past and future whilst affirming the present. The body/mind of the viewer

is invited to be the conduit for that shift.

Voynich Triptych