The Odyssey

John Kindness presents a series of works based on Homer’s epic.

Inspired by James Joyce’s version of the Odyssey, Ulysses, Kindness draws on the detailed nature of the writing to inform the format of his visual representation while employing his iconic “museum as medium” approach to developing and exhibiting the work. 

The fundamental and timeless relevance of Greek mythology underpins Kindness’ endeavour. It gives rise to his use of modern forms while staying faithful to Homer’s narrative and the nature of his characters. The hazards of Scylla and Charybdis are engraved onto a toilet seat, Odysseus’s teenage son listens to albums by The Sirens and The Gorgons, and Poseidon advertises expensive underwater watches. William Morris, Iris Robinson and Desperate Dan appear at various points.

Summerhall exhibits John Kindness’s work on the panelled ceiling of the Main Hall, which is lined with printed images of the works featured in the exhibition in the Lab Gallery that took place November 2022 – June 2023.

This space is not always open for public view, so please do request access to view the space ahead of time via visualarts@summerhall.co.uk