Stepping into the Cosmic House, a captivating installation by artist Isaac Julien, is like entering a kaleidoscope of imagery. The centerpiece is a film work titled 'All That Changes You. Metamorphosis', which, on a single screen, is mirrored and fragmented by a series of mirrors, creating an immersive experience. This design amplifies the film's central theme of transformation, as described in Ovid's Metamorphoses, where mortals are cursed by gods and undergo metamorphic changes. The film's narrative, carried by the performances of Sheila Atim and Gwendoline Christie, unfolds against a backdrop of stunning visuals. The setting blends natural landscapes like mountains and redwood forests with man-made structures, including the iconic Palazzo del Te in Mantua, designed by Giulio Romano, and the Cosmic House itself, a Postmodern masterpiece by Charles Jencks. The film's use of drones adds a disorienting element, enhancing the sense of transformation and chaos.
The Cosmic House, a Grade I-listed Postmodern building, is a treasure trove of references to the sun and the cosmos. A playful detail is the kitchen frieze, where Classical triglyphs are replaced by spoons, adding a touch of whimsy. While the film's minimal modernist interiors might be a disappointment to some, the overall experience is a rich and allusive dialogue with the house's architecture. The script, drawing from feminist science fiction and critical theory, explores humanity's relationship with the natural world and the post-human future. The abundance of color and detail in the imagery may sometimes border on OTT, but it adds to the immersive experience.
'All That Changes You. Metamorphosis' is a must-see installation at the Cosmic House, running until December 18th. It serves as a compelling reason to visit this unique architectural space, offering a blend of art, film, and architecture that is both thought-provoking and visually stunning.
