Danae 

Editor: Here we have *Danae*, a painting by Michael Parkes. The luminous quality of the figures really strikes me. It feels dreamlike, almost otherworldly. What do you make of it? Curator: It’s a fascinating work, isn't it? I see a deliberate invocation of classical mythology, interwoven with personal symbolism. The title itself, *Danae*, refers to the Greek princess imprisoned by her father, only to be impregnated by Zeus in the form of golden rain. It's about fate, power, and unexpected blessings. Notice the tiger. Does it serve as protector, a symbol of inner strength, or a reminder of something untamed? Editor: I hadn't thought of the tiger in those terms. It seemed more like a docile companion. The woman seems really calm next to such a beast. Curator: Consider that many of these artists are invoking classical symbols but reinventing them for modern purposes. Tigers rarely feature so prominently in traditional *Danae* depictions, do they? How does the context of classical myth and artistic conventions shift with these more modern interventions, reflecting contemporary sensibilities or psychological interests? Also notice the scarab beetle symbol— what feelings does that generate for you? Editor: Hmmm...re-birth? What exactly IS the intent of referencing an older tale while interjecting new images? Curator: Precisely. Its deliberate layering—ancient myth, surreal imagery—invites us to reconsider familiar narratives. Where the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods revived classical art to claim an aspirational lineage, fantasy art seems interested in myth as a flexible and generative visual field, an arena for psychology and desire. It reminds us that images can carry diverse and layered meanings, transcending time and culture. Editor: That's a perspective I hadn’t considered. So it’s not just about recreating a story but adding to it. Curator: Exactly. It is this constant negotiation between historical precedent and contemporary intervention that enriches the work. Editor: Thanks that was really interesting! Now I'm definitely thinking about this in a different light.