I Am Hymns of the New Temples is a site-specific exhibition that entirely transforms La Grande Halle of LUMA Arles into an immersive experience that blurs the lines between the real and the metaphysical.
The site of ancient Pompeii—the legendary city that was buried under ash and volcanic debris for centuries—is key to the display. Today, its outstanding state of conservation offers a fascinating record of the diversity of cultures that shaped its identity, at the crossroads of civilizations and trade routes. Intertwining history, stories and contemporary narratives, Shawky reinterprets the ancient Greek myth of creation, combining a spectacular choreography of movement, images and sounds, alongside unique sculptural and painterly elements. By revisiting theatrical traditions, Shawky explores timeless forms of storytelling, symbolism and ritual. This dialogue with the past offers a layered cinematic experience, deepening the emotional and philosophical impact of his work while connecting with a shared cultural memory.
