Why Alchemy?

 Every alchemical phenomenon is both material and psychological at the same time...James Hillman

Alchemy was the precursor to Scientific Chemistry. The alchemist unlike the scientist allowed there imagination freeplay as they worked with chemicals. They imagined that what was occuring in the vessel that they cooked various combinations of chemicals in was also occuring metaphorically inside them, there bodies, minds and souls were being transformed alongside the chemicals. It was Carl Jung who stumbled upon this and recognised that Alchemy offers a metaphorical treasure trove of images and a complex  understanding of mysterious psychological and cultural processes. Alchemy like Astrology and Christianity is part of our cultural heritage that every educated person should have rudimentary knowledge of.
This is the more philosophical task of Serio Ludere to open channels of conversation around the relevance of these ancient systems of thought.
Heres the late James Hillman, renegade Jungian Psychologist on the relevance of the alchemical metaphor.
How does the alchemical paradigm enliven a practice, an art, so that the practice, the art serves nature? Quite simply: by recognising the stuffs and tools, the places and constructions having each their enlivening spirits; by recognising the anima mundi- that all things are ensouled, with their own intentions, their own habits and pleasures. Treating things with regard for their properties. Alchemy is animism. Materials entrust themselves to us for their improvement. Nothing may be used without their willing cooperation.  

There so much more to be said and for us to discover as we apply this understanding to our work of reneergising, inspiring and healing public spaces. I hope others will join the conversation of a complex topic.