What is the relationship between art – a material (inmost cases) production that is nevertheless producing by the Imagination, and Magick which is “the science and art of causing change to occur in conformity with the will” (Crowley- not the only possible definition but it’ll do).
Starting in the 18th century in Europe, some artists intimated that the thing we often call Inspiration was in fact Magick, produced through rite or ritual or communication with spirits or other esoteric beliefs.
But the connection between art and magick is much older – we see it in the ancient arts of tomb and temple.
This has long been an interest of mine and I am seeking the modern roots of the Art/Magick relationship by starting with the fervent tumultuous era that birthed modern art: the late 18th. century.
Art and Magick is a magazine style blog that explores the intersections of art and the world of the esoteric, spirit, occulture and metaphysics. It features reviews, articles, interviews and more.
It will not look solely at art that is identified as “esoteric “ but will also examine the esoteric connections of well known “traditional “ or “mainstream “ art.
About Me
My name is Gillian McIver and I set up this blog when I was the Artist and Researcher in Residence at Swedenborg House in London. Through this blog, I aim to capture and share the essence of my residency, as well as highlight the exceptional work of talented contemporary artists that I have carefully selected. Join me on this artistic journey as I document and showcase the creativity that flourishes within this inspiring space.
I am an author, curator and producer of art projects.I have always been fascinated by the captivating world of art and the intriguing realm of the esoteric. Exploring how esoteric practitioners infuse their mystical knowledge into their artwork is one of the purposes of my research. Furthermore, uncovering the hidden esoteric influences behind well-known art pieces adds a significant layer of depth and mysticism. Truly, the fusion of art and the esoteric opens up a world of boundless creativity and endless possibilities.
My recent publications are Art and the Historical FIlm: Between Realism and the Sublime (2022) and ArtHistory for Filmmakers (2016). Both books explore the art historical roots of cinema and the relationship between the two art forms. My other publications include Tarkovsky’s River ( 2012) and Twixt (2011)
my artist website is www.artsite.org.uk
Biography
Gillian McIver started her artistic journey by picking up a camera and shooting bands, and then progressed to underground cinema-making. After a spell at film school, she co-founded the artist group Luna Nera, and spent a decade making large-scale site-specific projects in unusual sites, from a Russian naval base to a derelict grand hotel. She makes films and videos, installation art and photography, and curates exhibitions. Her most recent curatorial project was the exhibition Alchemy! in London, 2022.
She received her doctorate in art history and cinema studies, looking a visual storytelling in connection with aesthetic ideas about the real and the Sublime. Previously, she studied theatre history and was a researcher in residence at the Swedenborg House, researching theatre design history and the special effects artist Philip James de Loutherbourg. She has written several books on film, art history and scenography.
Art and Magick 