While working through the conceptualization process of The Nun, I discovered that Denis Diderot chose Paradise Lost as his single book allowance during one of his periods of incarceration. He was often jailed for sharing his ideas and beliefs. In 18th century France, philosophers were seen as the rock stars of their day, influencing thought and empowering the powerless. I discovered a very old and hopeless copy of the book (so I wouldn’t feel so bad about taking it apart to use in art) and thought to lug it with me to France to use in my work there. Then I discovered The Nun and the choice was obvious that Paradise Lost should be made later at home, representing the counterpart to sin (the fly); the savior (goldfinch).
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Made from the pages of the 1866 edition of Milton’s epic poem, illustrated by Gustave Doré. Refurbished antique grandfather clock case and staircase newel, wire, clay, trinitite, waxed string, led lights
