Untitled 1981

This tile work by Valerie Jaudon features a motif reminiscent of pointed arches, recurring symbols within various architectural traditions. The pointed arch, a hallmark of Gothic cathedrals, symbolizes aspiration and transcendence, directing the viewer's gaze toward the heavens. But here, the arch appears flattened, almost pressed—devoid of spiritual intention, and reduced to mere decoration. We see a similar trajectory in the palmette motif, which originated in ancient Egypt and Greece, initially representing life and regeneration. In Jaudon’s work, these symbols are repurposed in a playful, almost irreverent manner, suggesting a modern sensibility that seeks to break free from the burdens of the past. Such symbols resonate with the collective unconscious, triggering a sense of familiarity and inviting contemplation on our shared human experience. The cyclical nature of symbols reflects how cultural memory shapes our present.