Trickster – Pandora’s Box by Karen Chappelow

Artist Statement

“Pandora’s Box. The trickster is present to upset the status quo, turning the world into chaos, the world being transformed by their antics. the trickster archetype, primarily through Prometheus’ actions of giving humans the ability to make fire and the box full of disease and ills. Zeus and the other gods each added monstrous ills including greed, envy, hatred, war, disease, pain, hunger, poverty, hope and death.

Pandora was told not to open the box, knowing that she would. This act wreaked vengeance on humanity by letting these out into the world. Only hope remained as the lid was slammed shut just in time. Hope left inside the box, unavailable for all of humanity.

We can explore the themes of rebellion, the consequences of defying the established order, and the ambivalence of the trickster’s influence on the hero’s journey within the context of Pandora’s Box. I’ve subverted this by including a light sabre, handcuffs and wine. A much more interesting box. Pandora could be Eve; the similarities are many and both have been blamed for temptation and the downfall of mankind…writ large by men and perpetuated in bibles, tales, and songs. Totally ignoring the fact that the gods are manipulators and the cruel, twisted originators of these myths. My Pandora/Eve has a box of tricks indeed and freedom…viva equality!”

About the Artist

“I like it when I get a physical reaction from people when they view my art.  The whimsy, fun and sometimes political nature of life is evident in my work.  By expressing the fierceness of a female, the ridiculous in a scenario, becomes a message turned into humour softening the blow, breaking down barriers.  The expressionist nature of my work tries to blur the edges of reality and hopefully makes people smile, wonder, think and create conversation.”

Karen Chappelow has been sculpting and painting for more than 20 years, she has a drive for bucking the system and invites the viewer to view life through a different lens. Karen has collectors both Nationally and Internationally.

In recent times Karen has been extensively exhibiting in New York, Madrid, Luxembourg, Berlin, Rome and Malmo-Sweden. Also exhibiting in group shows in Perth and Melbourne. Karen’s work has appeared on the “The Block” a TV renovation show on Channel 9.

Karen will also be appearing in Home Design Magazine August 2023 edition.

Follow Instagram and Facebook @karenchappelow_artist for new work.