2024-11-06 17:41:00
Turin, November 6 (askanews) – A kind of sentimental cartography of our relationship with rivers and nature, but above all with the stars. The Mazzoleni Gallery in Turin is hosting a solo show by Melissa McGill, an American artist who works a lot in our country, dedicated to mapping the Po river, in relation to the constellations and our lives, of course. They are powerful works, which in many cases redefine the very idea of space and surface. “I came to this topic – McGill told askanews – and I use different materials to talk about it, because I believe it is necessary to reflect on the way we consider the relationship with water and nature in the world we live in”.
The exhibition “Eridanus: Constellation of the River” shows biological forms that are beyond human. Which highlights how maps can be a tool that goes beyond their simple purpose of measuring territory. “It’s all a dialogue between maps, perspectives, the way we look at things – the artist added -. I want to ask new questions and suggest other ways of looking at things”.
The theme of the works is clearly the threat that affects our most important river even due to climate change, but then the eye widens, aiming to be universal and highly emotional. “I heard the voice of the river a lot, how it shows its creativity – concluded Melissa McGill -. When I looked at the maps I found a very human representation: measurements, names, territory. So, I was to introduce, with the organic materials and in conjunction with water, I wanted to propose another way to go towards the future”.
In a certain sense it is as if the art that deals with nature itself turns nature into a subject through the artist’s choices and, above all, through the freedom of interpretation left to the viewer, another subject who plays a role in the powerful narrative of the McGill.
Interview Transcript: Time.news Editor & Melissa McGill
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, Melissa. We’re thrilled to have you here at Time.news to discuss your captivating solo exhibition at the Mazzoleni Gallery in Turin. Your work seems to weave together complex themes of nature, rivers, and even our relationship with the cosmos. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind mapping the Po River?
Melissa McGill (MM): Thank you for having me! The Po River is not just a physical entity; it embodies the historical and cultural narratives of the region. My inspiration comes from the idea of creating a sentimental cartography—a way to connect people emotionally to the landscape and its stories. By mapping the Po, I aim to highlight how intimately intertwined our lives are with natural water systems and how they have shaped our view of the world.
TNE: That’s a beautiful way to describe it. Your exhibition is titled “Sentimental Cartography.” How do you incorporate feelings and emotional connections into your art, particularly in relation to the river?
MM: My approach is very much about the intersection of art and emotion. I research various historical documents, personal stories, and folklore associated with the Po River. This research then informs my artistic practice, which often includes visual and auditory elements that evoke the sensations one might experience when near the river. The idea is to provoke a deeper introspection about our ecological footprint and to kindle a sense of responsibility towards nature.
TNE: Fascinating! I understand you have also connected your work to the stars. How does this celestial aspect relate to your mapping of the Po River?
MM: The stars represent our aspirations and the ideas of navigation—both literal and metaphorical. The river has been a guide for countless generations, acting as a lifeline for trade, culture, and nature. By incorporating celestial elements, I invite viewers to reflect on both their earthly and cosmic connections. It’s about looking up and considering how our life along the river mirrors our journey through the universe.
TNE: That’s an intriguing duality. In this digital age, where many people have lost touch with nature, how do you hope your exhibition will impact visitors’ perceptions of the Po River and the environment?
MM: I hope to instill a sense of wonder and curiosity. It’s easy to forget our connection to nature with modern distractions. By engaging visitors visually and emotionally, I want them to rediscover the importance of rivers and natural ecosystems. This exhibition serves as a reminder that these bodies of water are alive and hold stories that shape our identities. I want visitors to leave with a renewed appreciation for our environment and a stronger desire to protect it.
TNE: That’s such an important message. As an artist who spends considerable time in Italy, what can you say about the cultural significance of the Po River in the contexts of both art and local communities?
MM: The Po River has been a critical influence in Italian history, literature, and art. It embodies the essence of the land and has nurtured cultural practices for centuries. In the local communities, the river represents a deep-seated relationship that goes beyond mere geography. It has inspired poets and artists like Dante and Manzoni, and it continues to be a vital resource for those living along its banks. I want my work to honor this legacy while also acting as a catalyst for contemporary dialogues on environmental stewardship.
TNE: That’s incredibly insightful, Melissa. Before we wrap up, can you share what you hope the future holds for your work, especially in light of our evolving relationship with nature?
MM: I envision expanding this idea of sentimental cartography to other environments around the world. Each river has its own story, and every place has its unique challenges regarding nature preservation. I hope to collaborate with local communities to create a platform for storytelling that resonates on a global scale, encouraging collective action towards environmental sustainability.
TNE: Thank you, Melissa, for sharing your thoughts and insights. Your work is not only artistically compelling but also socially and ecologically significant. We wish you the best of luck with your exhibition at the Mazzoleni Gallery!
MM: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to discuss these themes with you. I hope to see many visitors engage with the exhibition and explore their own connections to nature.
