The Wedlock Series: The Underpinnings of Athena 

Curator: This relief sculpture is titled *The Wedlock Series: The Underpinnings of Athena* by Kerry O. Furlani. Editor: The texture of the stone is the first thing I notice. The flat, carved relief reminds me of early architectural models and a stark monumentality. Curator: It is interesting how an abstract design could still invite associations with the imagery of the classical goddess Athena, especially the idea of “wedlock,” which typically reflects themes of marriage and societal structures. In what ways do you sense these associations through the composition? Editor: I appreciate the tension between the texture and the form. I wonder about the tools Furlani used, the labor involved to cut into this surface. I can see where some of the texture may suggest “underpinnings” if it reflects some earlier layer or substructure. But it is interesting that Athena would be linked with "wedlock", since she is well-known as the virgin goddess of war and wisdom. Curator: In a symbolic reading, we can see that the abstract composition contains a complex visual vocabulary which may reflect a mythic world view, including feminine ideals and historical concepts through repeated imagery. Editor: Yes, there are symbolic implications here, though it raises a good question regarding material constraints and opportunities for making images. If we really dig in, the patterns created in this flat relief almost suggest early digital design rendered physically. Curator: Considering the materials, your comment on an early digital aesthetic does echo certain geometric languages that became prominent in modern design. That this links back to Classical images reveals, perhaps, the historical roots of digital modes of thought. Editor: To me, there's a raw simplicity that feels very honest. Furlani's choice to use such a direct material grounds the abstraction with a potent reality. Curator: I appreciate the connections that you have made, tracing symbols from a timeless goddess figure to contemporary technology and beyond! Editor: Thank you! The physical effort and labor bring out dimensions of meaning to symbolic artwork that's compelling for audiences.