Jonathan Baldock: 0.1% at London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE, UK
Jan 30 – July 5, 2025
Images courtesy of London Mithraeum Bloomberg, Stephen Friedman Gallery, and the artist
Jonathan Baldock’s “0.1%” at the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE is a deeply evocative installation that masterfully intertwines personal narrative with the profound tapestry of human history. Nestled above the remnants of the Roman Temple of Mithras, this exhibition invites viewers into a realm where ancient rituals and contemporary reflections coalesce, challenging our perceptions of identity and interconnectedness.
Central to the installation is a monumental Mother Goddess sculpture, an enlargement of a clay piece Baldock originally crafted for his mother. This personal relic, now cast in bronze and adorned with semi-precious gems, stands in poignant contrast to the male-centric Mithraic temple below. The choice to elevate a maternal figure underscores a deliberate shift, emphasizing nurturing and creation over dominance and conquest. It’s a bold statement, positioning the feminine divine at the heart of a historically patriarchal space.
Baldock’s meticulous use of natural materials—hessian wool, clay, wood, and metal—imbues the space with an organic authenticity. These elements, reminiscent of ancient craft traditions, bridge the temporal gap between past and present. The tactile quality of the materials invites viewers to reflect on the universality of human experience, echoing the exhibition’s title, “0.1%,” which references the minuscule genetic differences that distinguish us. This subtle nod to our shared humanity is both humbling and unifying.
Thematically, the installation delves into myths, legends, and rituals, drawing parallels between ancient practices and contemporary life. By reimagining queer and working-class histories through the lens of folklore and paganism, Baldock challenges conventional narratives, offering a more inclusive perspective on cultural heritage. This recontextualization prompts viewers to question the stories we’ve inherited and consider the myriad voices that have been marginalized or silenced.
In “0.1%,” Baldock not only pays homage to the site’s archaeological significance but also transforms it into a space of introspection and dialogue. The installation serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to bridge epochs, cultures, and personal histories, reminding us that while the past is immutable, our understanding and interpretation of it are ever-evolving.
