A World Beyond: Major ‘Ghosts’ Exhibition Unveils Humanity’s Enduring Fascination with the Supernatural
Draguignan, France – Prepare to confront your deepest fears and most cherished beliefs. A landmark exhibition, “Ghosts,” is set to open its doors on June 21, 2025, at the Departmental Hotel for Var Exhibitions in Draguignan, France, promising a captivating and unsettling journey through the history of humanity’s relationship with the spectral realm. This isn’t just a collection of spooky stories; it’s a meticulously curated exploration of ghosts as cultural phenomena, scientific curiosities, and enduring symbols of our mortality. This is breaking news for anyone interested in history, art, the paranormal, or the enduring mysteries of the human experience.
From Babylonian Tablets to Victorian Spirit Photography: A Timeline of Belief
The exhibition, spearheaded by the renowned “Indiana Jones of Cemeteries” – medical examiner, paleopathologist, and archaeo-anthropologist Philippe Charlier – traces the concept of ghosts across millennia and continents. It begins with a startlingly early depiction: a 3,500-year-old Babylonian tablet showcasing a man captured by a woman, held by a rope, representing an attempt to banish an unwanted spirit. This isn’t a modern invention; as Charlier explains, “There isn’t a civilization on earth which does not have its ghosts.”
The exhibition doesn’t shy away from the darker side of history. Visitors will encounter Etruscan funeral steles depicting mothers who died in childbirth, Egyptian talismans intended to guide souls to the afterlife, and accounts of haunted houses dating back to Pliny the Ancient. But it’s not all ancient history. The 19th century, a period of both scientific advancement and burgeoning occultism, receives significant attention. Original manuscripts, like that of Gustave Flaubert’s “The Horla,” a chilling tale of a haunting, will be on display, alongside paintings that capture the anxieties and fascinations of the era.
Science, Belief, and the Search for Proof
What sets this exhibition apart is its willingness to engage with the scientific attempts to understand – or prove – the existence of ghosts. From the early experiments with photography and the development of devices like Thomas Edison’s photonographe (designed to capture light phenomena) and necrophone (intended to record the voices of the dead), to the more dubious practices of spirit mediums, the exhibition presents a nuanced view of the quest for evidence. Charlier, known for his controversial but highly publicized studies of historical figures like Henri IV, Joan of Arc, and even Adolf Hitler, brings a unique perspective to the subject, blending scientific rigor with a deep appreciation for the cultural context of belief.
His personal collection, enriched by loans from prestigious institutions like the Louvre, the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BNF), and the Museum of Art and History of Geneva, forms the core of the exhibition. A particularly intriguing piece is a pencil drawing presented as a self-portrait of death, allegedly scribbled by Victor Hugo during a spiritualism session.
Global Specters: From Japanese Yōkai to Beninese Egungun
The exhibition expands beyond Western traditions, showcasing the diverse ways cultures around the world conceptualize and interact with the spirit world. Japanese yōkai – mischievous and often frightening spirits – are represented alongside the vibrant costumes of the Beninese Egungun, worn by members of the Yoruba tribe to commune with ancestors. Mexican death heads, Indonesian exorcism costumes, and Thai shadow puppets further illustrate the global tapestry of ghostly beliefs. This global perspective highlights the universality of our fascination with what lies beyond.
Contemporary Echoes: Ghosts in Art and Modern Culture
The exhibition doesn’t ignore the contemporary relevance of ghosts. Works by artists like Christian Boltanski, whose installations often evoke the ghosts of history and the Holocaust, and Enki Bilal, who photographed the Louvre at night, revealing spectral presences within its walls, demonstrate how the concept of the ghost continues to inspire artistic expression. Even pop culture references, from Casper the Friendly Ghost to Ghostbusters, are acknowledged, showcasing the enduring appeal of these ethereal figures.
“Ghosts” promises to be more than just an exhibition; it’s an invitation to contemplate our own mortality, our connection to the past, and the enduring power of the human imagination. It’s a timely reminder that, regardless of whether we believe in ghosts, they remain a potent force in our collective consciousness. For those planning a trip to France in 2025, this is a must-see event. Stay updated on the exhibition and related events at hdevar.fr.
