MEDUSA

Medusa

In the best-known story about Medusa, the Greek goddess Athena transforms her into a monster with snake-like hair and supernatural powers: anyone who looks Medusa in the eye is turned to stone. This is a punishment for Poseidon’s assault on Medusa. Medusa’s fate is a subplot in a heroic tale about the demigod Perseus, who beheads the monster through a ruse.

Living Together

For centuries, Medusa has inspired writers, artists, fashion designers and musicians. From Versace to Rihanna, and from Goethe to Iris van Herpen. Gradually, Medusa’s role shifts from monster and nymph to victim and hero. In this way, she becomes an icon of the women’s movement, anti-colonial resistance and environmental activism. She becomes a guide to new ways of living together.

Programme

The myth of Medusa is constantly evolving, and you are part of that: what stays with you, and what will you pass on? What story do you think Medusa should tell the world? During the Medusa exhibition, the Valkhof Museum is organising a rich and varied programme. Art, pop culture, history, science and activism come together in debates, performances, workshops and other events. Let Medusa challenge you, inspire you and set your mind alight. Because meanings are not fixed, but emerge through dialogue with one another.