Solo exhibition, curated by Olivia Grace Middelboe
55 MA is a new installation by Urte Janus, responding to the Anglican chapel in Nunhead Cemetery, London. In 55 MA, Janus explores the geological history of the site, drawing inspiration from the forms of the mangrove trees, fossils and abundance of flora embedded in the London clay on which the chapel was built. The title 55 MA takes its name from the Eocene, the geological epoch in which the London clay was formed. It comes from the ancient Greek ἠώς (ēṓs, “dawn”) and καινός (kainós, “new”).
In 55 MA, Janus explores the layers of time buried within the land on which the cemetery was constructed. The earth is an archive, recording the changes to our land, and the memory of those who have come before us. She is also looking forward, at what might be held here in the future.
— Olivia Grace Middelboe
Photography by Aurimas Sapolas