Dragon and Beelzebub
Alexis HunterDragon and Beelzebub by Alexis Hunter is a striking print that delves into themes of mythology, duality, and conflict. Known for her explorations of symbolism and storytelling, Hunter presents an intense and dynamic encounter between two fantastical beings—a dragon and Beelzebub, figures often associated with power, chaos, and the supernatural.
The print is rendered in a vibrant monochromatic blue, creating a sense of otherworldly energy. The dragon, with its spotted body and sharp spines, locks claws with the chaotic and tangled form of Beelzebub, depicted with wild, flowing lines and prominent antennae. The interaction between the two figures is captured in mid-motion, suggesting a dramatic and ongoing struggle. Lightning-like zigzags emanating from Beelzebub and the energetic splatters and swirls in the background emphasise the ferocity of the encounter.
Hunter’s composition is rich with textural contrasts, from the dense, chaotic detailing of Beelzebub to the smoother yet equally animated curves of the dragon. The print's layering and dynamic forms invite viewers to interpret the nature of the conflict, whether as a battle between good and evil, order and chaos, or opposing elements in mythology and human psyche.
Created in 1983, Dragon and Beelzebub reflects Hunter’s interest in narrative-driven works that engage with universal archetypes and existential themes. Part of the Camden’s People’s Museum collection, this artwork highlights Hunter’s ability to merge personal expression with mythological themes, inviting viewers to reflect on the enduring power of symbolic imagery and its relevance to contemporary culture.
Dragon and Beelzebub by Alexis Hunter is a striking print that delves into themes of mythology, duality, and conflict. Known for her explorations of symbolism and storytelling, Hunter presents an intense and dynamic encounter between two fantastical beings—a dragon and Beelzebub, figures often associated with power, chaos, and the supernatural.
The print is rendered in a vibrant monochromatic blue, creating a sense of otherworldly energy. The dragon, with its spotted body and sharp spines, locks claws with the chaotic and tangled form of Beelzebub, depicted with wild, flowing lines and prominent antennae. The interaction between the two figures is captured in mid-motion, suggesting a dramatic and ongoing struggle. Lightning-like zigzags emanating from Beelzebub and the energetic splatters and swirls in the background emphasise the ferocity of the encounter.
Hunter’s composition is rich with textural contrasts, from the dense, chaotic detailing of Beelzebub to the smoother yet equally animated curves of the dragon. The print's layering and dynamic forms invite viewers to interpret the nature of the conflict, whether as a battle between good and evil, order and chaos, or opposing elements in mythology and human psyche.
Created in 1983, Dragon and Beelzebub reflects Hunter’s interest in narrative-driven works that engage with universal archetypes and existential themes. Part of the Camden’s People’s Museum collection, this artwork highlights Hunter’s ability to merge personal expression with mythological themes, inviting viewers to reflect on the enduring power of symbolic imagery and its relevance to contemporary culture.
Camden Art Collection
The London Borough of Camden Art Collection consists of just under 1,000 items that include works on paper, paintings and sculptures. The main focus of the collection is works dating from the late 1950s to the late 1980s, with many pieces by artists who lived in the Borough. Many of these works were inherited from the predecessor authorities who were gifted these pieces when the Council was established in 1965. Other works were directly purchased by the Council from 1965 to 1985, with limited funding from a ‘picture loan’ scheme that the Council operated.
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