Alien Myth vs. Earthly Wonder: The Alien Animals Project
Curiosity about sky phenomena sparked a creative project that shifts focus from distant myths to the wonder already present on Earth. By foregrounding the zorilla—its bold black-and-white stripes, fearless stance, and surprisingly sophisticated chemical defense—the work shows how labeling something as “alien” dramatically increases attention, while presenting it as wildlife can render it ordinary. This points to a broader critique of modern culture, where sensationalized UAP chatter, fear, and algorithmic mythmaking crowd out genuine curiosity about the natural world. There is an openness to the possibility that other beings might exist, but much popular discourse feels more myth than discovery. Artists, especially those with income stability, are seen as critical mediators who can experiment honestly, avoid self-censorship, and move ideas from mere attention to real awareness. TheAlien Animals project aims to ground creativity in the real world while technology and media reshape the landscape, using storytelling, humor, and symbolic imagery to illuminate important truths before they fade into noise. Ultimately, the work reframes “alien” as a reminder of the extraordinary already surrounding us, urging a balanced vigilance—one eye on the soil and one on the horizon—to notice what has always been there. The project also engages tangible and digital avenues (like tote bags and NFTs) to explore how art interacts with culture and commerce.
Source: andycmarshall.com
