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earmaginations On-site & Online June 7th
Charon Lives
In Greek mythology, Charon is the ferryman of the Underworld who transports souls across the rivers Styx and Acheron. Souls without proper burial were unable to pay his fee, thus left to wander the earthly side of Acheron, haunting the world as ghosts. This artwork represents Charon as its animal namesake, the first giant larvacean found off the coast of California, Bathochordaeus charon. Larvaceans are solitary, free-swimming tunicates, animals with a primitive spinal cord but no real backbone. This ghostly creature evokes the liminal world of spirits. Like Charon who moves in deep water and carries his passengers in the underworld, the larvacean swims in the deep sea seeking, searching, floating.
Nature artist, animator, storyteller of Hawaiian endangered species. Laurie’s work explores themes of extinction, diversity and spirituality. She has exhibited in New York, Los Angeles, Brazil and screened at DOCNYC, BAM cinemaFest, PS1 MoMA. Her first feature, A PARADISE LOST, is supported by Firelight Media, Sundance Institute, PIC & Jackson Wild.