Aglaeca III: Dread and Awe

Originating in Anglo-Saxon literature, aglaeca is a multifaceted term often associated with the epic poem Beowulf. The word has been interpreted in various ways throughout history, encompassing ideas of fear, wonder, strength, and otherness.

This exhibition brings together the work of four artists — Becky Atherton, Marion Bayliss, Serah Stringer, and Tiago da Cruz — each of whom has reinterpreted the concept of aglaeca through their own artistic practice.

The resulting collection of works explores both mythological influences found within the natural world and the psychological dimensions of dread and awe. Through diverse approaches and media, the artists investigate how these powerful emotional and cultural themes continue to resonate in contemporary life.