Psychedelia
Psychedelia
Psychedelia
Research
Year
2021
Subtitle
Psychedelia Library
This project delves into the profound impact and enduring prevalence of psychedelia and psychedelics throughout human history. From their earliest recorded use in 5400 BCE Algeria to their ongoing role in modern religious practices, psychedelics have left an indelible mark across religion, mythology, and counterculture. By mapping these connections, the project seeks to explore psychedelics’ relevance in ancient and contemporary contexts visually.
The project is a visual research journey, expanding into an ever-growing library of kaleidoscopic spheres. Each sphere offers a unique visual experiment, with one sphere presenting a thematic visual—whether rooted in mythology, religion, or counterculture—while the other sphere reveals corresponding text or factual insights. These dual spheres create an immersive experience where each theme is explored through both abstract visuals and scholarly facts, offering a deeper understanding of psychedelics’ role throughout history.
The aim was to challenge preconceived notions, shed light on often-censored links between psychedelics, ancient high cultures, and religious practices, and provoke new perspectives. It invites viewers to engage with the etymology of psychedelia, derived from the Greek words psyche (soul) and deloun (to reveal or manifest), emphasizing the transformational potential of psychedelics—both in their historical context and their ongoing cultural relevance.