Seven stories

Beeswax, paraffin wax, nails, earth, soap, sugar, gold dust, book ash, antique bookcase, 2017

This installation work was my first to explore the archetypes of storytelling.
A mould was made from an old clothbound novel. From this were cast 7 books, in 7 different materials.
Each book represents one of the seven basic plots of storytelling, and its material reflects the nature of the story.
But the books can’t be opened, their contents a mystery.

Voyage and Return: beeswax

Slaying the monster: paraffin wax and nails

Tragedy: earth and paraffin wax

Rebirth: book ash and beeswax

Comedy: sugar

Quest: gold dust and paraffin wax

Rags to Riches: soap