This body of work, created by Iain MacRae and curated by Maiden Plum, explores humanity’s ongoing construction of tradition and culture within communities. However, this notion of "culture" is often a carefully crafted illusion, shaped by selective memory and omissions. Throughout history, societies have chosen to ignore pivotal moments that influence their traditions, instead fabricating an imaginary heritage that is expected to be trusted and upheld. This exhibition examines and exposes these lost ideals—elements that paradoxically form the foundation of the cultures people take pride in today.

A central visual motif in the works is the solid

black background, which directly critiques

how white society has built its own cultural

identity by appropriating African American

culture.

The recurring image of the skull symbolizes both

the death of authentic heritage and the

fundamental similarities that unite humankind.

Bold words and phrases serve as direct

statements, challenging the notion that art

must always be open to personal interpretation.

While individual perspectives remain valuable,

each piece carries an intentional message

designed to provoke thought and reflection.

The use of missing letters and fragmented

phrases in certain works further reinforces

the theme of cultural distortion—inviting

viewers to engage with the mystery of

history and shifting perspectives, seeing each

piece in an ever-evolving light.