A visual feast of eclectic artwork informed and inspired by spiritual beliefs, magical techniques, mythology and otherworldly experiences. Mystical beliefs and practices have existed for millennia, but why do we still chase the esoteric? From the beginning of human creativity itself, image-makers have been drawn to these unknown spheres and have created
curious artworks that transcend time and place - but what is it that attracts artists to these magical realms?
From
theosophy and
kabbalah, to the
zodiac and
alchemy;
spiritualism and
ceremonial magic, to
the elements and
sacred geometry -
The Art of the Occult introduces major occult themes and showcases the artists who have been influenced and led by them. Discover the
symbolic and
mythical images of the
Pre-Raphaelites; the automatic drawing of
Hilma af Klint and
Madge Gill;
Leonora Carrington's surrealist interpretation of
myth,
alchemy and
kabbalah; and much more.
Featuring
prominent, marginalised and little-known artists,
The Art of the Occult crosses mystical spheres in a bid to
inspire and delight. Divided into thematic chapters (The Cosmos, Higher Beings, Practitioners), the book acts as
an entertaining introduction to the art of mysticism - with essays examining each practice and
over 175 artworks to discover.
The art of the occult has always existed in the margins but inspired the masses, and this book will spark curiosity in all
fans of magic, mysticism and the mysterious.
