Roberta Jones - Back to the future

Leda and the Swan, When Myth Hides Violence

Can there be consent for a swan? In Greek mythology, Leda is a queen who is approached by Zeus, the king of the gods, transformed into a swan. What follows is a story told in many different ways: sometimes as seduction, sometimes as violence, sometimes as consent. From this encounter are born figures who will change history, including Helen of Troy. In this episode, we explore how the myth of Leda and the Swan has been represented in art for centuries, from ancient sculpture to Renaissance painting, and why it has always been both beautiful and disturbing. Artists used this myth to show the female body, desire, and power—often hiding violence behind grace and elegance. We then move to the twentieth century, where artists like Francesca Woodman break this tradition and use the myth to talk about vulnerability, control, and reclaiming one’s own body. A conversation about myth, art, and why Leda still speaks to us today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Legacy of Hermaphroditus

Who decides what it means to be a man or a woman? And what happens when those definitions blur? In this episode, we explore the fascinating legacy of Hermaphroditus, the mythical child of Hermes and Aphrodite, whose story has challenged gender boundaries for millennia. From ancient Greek myths to Roman sculptures, from Renaissance intrigue to modern queer art, we trace how intersexuality and fluid identities have been represented, feared, and celebrated throughout history. With a visit to the Museo Palazzo Massimo in Rome, where the Sleeping Hermaphrodite lies in enigmatic repose, we unravel the deeper meanings behind this timeless figure—and what it reveals about our own world today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

MUSES or MASTERS? The journey of women in art

"Do women have to be naked to get into the Met Museum?” This bold question from the Guerrilla Girls kicks off our deep dive into the wild world of women in art. For centuries, women were painted, sculpted, and idealized—but rarely seen as artists themselves. So, what changed?From Renaissance rebels like Sofonisba Anguissola to modern rule-breakers like Frida Kahlo, we’re shining a light on the trailblazing women who crushed stereotypes and smashed the glass ceiling or to be more precise smashed the painting frame! These aren’t just stories of paintings and sculptures—they’re about fighting the system, owning their identity, and proving art isn’t just a boys’ club.Get ready for a journey through history, a bit of rebellion, and some serious girl power in art. It’s time to ask: What does it take to go from muse to master? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Witches, love potions, and the Mouth of Truth in Rome

In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersection of art and magic, beginning with the legendary Bocca della Verità in Rome—a stone face with a mysterious past. We delve into Renaissance paintings that depict witchcraft and sorcery, uncovering the darker side of art’s history. From ancient love potions to modern-day rituals, we trace the enduring power of magic in shaping human desires.Finally, we touch on the contemporary intersections of art and magic with figures like Marina Abramovic and Alejandro Jodorowsky, who challenge our perceptions of reality through their ritualistic and psychomagic performances.Join us as we unravel the secrets and stories that blend art with the supernatural across the ages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can the Machine become the Artist?

Join me on another time travelling journey into the evolving world of art and artificial intelligence in this episode on Art in the age of AI and NFTs. We start with a captivating tale of a mechanised Madonna created by Pieter Paul Rubens in Rome in the 17th century, a stunning blend of old-world artistry and ingenious engineering.As we traverse from the cobblestone streets of historical Rome to the cutting-edge studios of today's digital artists, we explore how AI is redefining creativity. Hear about the groundbreaking sale of the AI-generated Family de Belamy portraits, sparking debates and awe across the global art scene.Dive into the complex mechanics behind Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and their transformative role in art production. We'll also unravel the enigma of NFTs—how these digital tokens are turning virtual brush strokes into valuable assets, challenging our very notions of ownership and originality.This episode is a portal to the future of art. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a tech geek, or simply curious about the creative frontier, there’s something here for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices