Venus and Paris c. 20th century

Editor: This is Alfonso Ossorio's "Venus and Paris," a black and white print. It's incredibly detailed! What strikes me is the juxtaposition of classical mythology with what seems like a more modern, almost surrealist style. What do you make of this combination? Curator: It speaks to Ossorio's interest in bridging historical narratives with contemporary anxieties. The print likely alludes to the classical Judgement of Paris, but Ossorio reinterprets it through a mid-20th-century lens, perhaps reflecting on changing social norms and the power of imagery in shaping our perceptions of beauty. Editor: So, it’s not just a retelling, but a commentary? Curator: Precisely. By placing Venus in this context, Ossorio encourages us to consider how these archetypes persist and evolve within our own culture. A clever move! Editor: I never would have considered all of those layers. Thanks!