Theme: Mythology
Mythology
In ancient times, the stories that we today consider to be mythological were more than that; they were the religion, the worldview, and the stories that guided the actions of ancient peoples. The gods and legendary of old – such as Quetzalcōātl, Zeus, Raven, Odin, and Ishtar – were there to provide guidance and to sow havoc. Some of these legends passed into myth as perspectives changed. Thanks to oral traditions and the written word, these stories have been preserved through time. Many today are still fascinated by these legends, which we can see in everything from Japanese anime to Disney movies. We continue to create new myths to this day, such as tales of cryptids or aliens, myths about what life should be like, or ways to explain historical mysteries.
It is important to note that what some may consider mythology, others consider sacred stories that are significant in both the historical and contemporary context.
The GVSU Art Museum collection contains examples of artwork that interprets these ancient stories through sculpture, print, painting, and photography.
Incorporating Mythology into Your Curriculum
Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Apollo and Daphne, modern bronze reproduction, 2007, 2007.560.1.
Roger Boss, In Which Perseus and His Warriors Fight the Terrible Beast, oil on canvas, 2011, 2011.23.1.
Khoi Tran, Vietnamese Four Holy Beats: Phoenix, fountain pen, and ink on paper, 2021, 2022.27.2d.
Michael Nelson Jakamarra, Mt. Singleton Dreamings, acrylic on canvas, 2016.74.28.
Gaston Albert Lavrillier, Diana on the Hunt, metal plaque, circa 1920, L11.2022.837.
Mary Ellen McNaughton, Modern Myth: Mr. Work and Mrs. House, ceramic, 2009.42.1ab.
Seth Sutton, Untitled, digital print, 2024.1.8.
The GVSU Art Museum can integrate artwork into your classroom discussions, assignments, projects, and more. Check out our calendar to see if one of our already planned events meets a goal for your students, or reach out to us directly to plan something tailored to your needs. We can bring artwork to your classroom, classes can visit our art storage or office spaces, or book a tour of an exhibition or space on campus.
The GVSU Art Museum team can work with faculty one-on-one to create lesson plans or assignments. Whether you are looking for a behind-the-scenes experience, something hands-on, a creative usage of art in your classroom, or a more traditional assignment, we are here to assist you.
Teaching subjects regarding mythology, the Classics, ancient cultures, storytelling, or writing? Studies show that students retain knowledge more with visual aids. Use these artworks to jumpstart conversations or as the inspiration for creative writing. Studying ancient understandings of the land or traditions? These artworks can help students understand the ways the land has changed or how people lived.
To talk with us about creating a curriculum connection, please contact:
Jessica Sundstrom, Learning and Outreach Manager [email protected]
Madeline Devantier, Poseidon, screenprint, 2024, 2025.39.8.
African Mythology
Asian Mythology
Australian Mythology
Greek and Roman Mythology
Indigenous Mythology
Mythical Creatures
Header Images:
Left
Linter Dismas, Palau Legends, carved wood, circa 2015, 2016.38.1.
Dmitry Kaminker, Danu: Thousand Breasts Goddess, cast bronze, 2004.386.1.
Kristen Hollingsworth, Apollo, digital print, 2016, 2016.115.1.
Center
Hannah Moeggenborg, My Neighbor Totoro, etching with aquatint, 2011, 2012.75.1.
BreeAnn Veenstra, The Ceryneian Hind, pen and ink on digital print, 2008, 2009.99.1a.
Alyssa Parsons, Bacchus, oil on board, 2011, 2012.83.2.
Right
Gavin Weir, Europa and the Bull, ink, charcoal, and pencil, 2019, 2019.29.1.
Tony Fitzpatrick, Norwhalis, etching, 1994, 2017.12.97.
Sid Anderson Tjampitjinpa, 'Magungi' Water Dreaming, acrylic on canvas, 2016.74.8.