Mithridate is a semi-mythical poison antidote. It was named after the Mithridates VI (King of Pontus), who fortified his body against death by consuming poison in small quantities in the belief that he would become to any poison that he may be given in an attempt to destroy him. This practice of drinking the antidote was popular until the 19th century, and the formulation thereof was complex and sought after. Today, the term itself refers to an all-purpose antidote.

Janse van Vuuren explores the notion of the self as both the centre of destruction and the solution thereof itself. The mirror image presented in the work creates a balance both aesthetically and interpretatively. The rough edges that remain on the works are representative of the process of becoming. The ongoing cycle of building a tolerance to that which threatens your existence and thus becomes a part of who you are. This also hints towards an idea of encasing oneself in a detached air of presence, and a desensitization towards that which may bring you harm.

In essence, the self becomes the strength within the framework of protection. It is the cyclical utilization of counteracting unpleasant feelings, situations or figurative poisons that allows one to become engrossed in the presence of possibility. This work, which at first glance appears relatively foreboding, is a positive reinforcement of the ability of choice to determine self-importance and true being.

< Go back