Windows to the Sacred: An Exploration of the Esoteric is a beautiful and provocative exhibition of alternative forms of spiritual practice.
I had a chance to visit and was excited to see art by esoteric icons such as Rosaleen Norton and Aleister Crowley.
Rosaleen Norton (2 October 1917 – 5 December 1979) was an Australian occultist and artist. Devoted to Pan, Norton identified as a Witch. She lived in King Cross, Sydney, and became known as the Witch of Kings Cross. Her art depicted supernatural themes, gods, demons, and sex. Norton was quite scandalous and both she and her art met with controversy. Norton is much beloved in the Australia Pagan and Witch communities.
Aleister Crowley (12 October 1875 – 1 December 1947) was an English occultist, artist, and mountaineer. He was a member of the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and founded the religion of Thelema. He was a prolific writer. Controversial and highly polarising, his work has endured and influenced contemporary Pagan and magickal practices.
Windows to the Sacred also featured art from James Gleeson, Danie Mellor, and Robert Buratti who is also the curator and one of Australia’s leading experts on esoteric art.
The exhibition runs until 12 July. Admission is just $4 ($2 concession) at the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery.
