Markus Hoffmann, Soma

Markus Hoffmann, Soma, 2023
Fine art print, negative double-exposed with radioactive samples, mounted on aluminium dibond, walnut frame, museum glass
36 x 51 cm
Edition of 13 + 3 AP

The work Soma shows an Amanita Muscaria embedded in a landscape of moss and ferns. 

The negative of the photo has been exposed to radioactive soil samples from the Bavarian Forest. The exposure leaves white traces on the negative thus the radioactivity becomes visible. Soma has the feel of an enchanting moment in time when ferries still existed. Moreover, the mushroom Amanita Muscaria has an endless amount of references in stories from early Greek mythology to today's Santa Clause. Each of them are connected to expansion of consciousness or tapping into realms that are beyond measures of rational complexion. 

The Amanita is also a sign of luck and well-being and is connected to magic and witchcraft which makes it the most pop-culturally used archetype of a mushroom species that exists. The number of the Edition, as well as the price, are reflecting the aspect of win and prosperity. Mushrooms are the largest and oldest species of our planet as well as strong bioaccumulators. One could say that each mushroom’s body is an expression of the landscape's history. The name Soma refers to the search of a substance that in Ancient Greek mythology was called Soma Flesh of the Gods and that was used in initiations called Eleusian Mysteries. These are considered the most famous and secret religious rites of Ancient Greece.