Culture Night at the Glyptotek – Amulets and Talismans
Friday, 10 October at 6 pm to 12 midnight
Enter a world of magic at the Glyptotek!
Step into a world of magic at the Glyptotek! On Culture Night, we delve into the fascinating history and significance of amulets—small objects that have protected and brought luck to people across cultures throughout time.
Hear about the ancient Egyptians’ lucky and protective scarabs and faience god figures (a special type of ceramic), and the Romans’ Medusa amulets, worn to shield the bearer and ward off evil spirits.
You can also explore the Glyptotek’s newly opened special exhibition Soundings of the Earth by contemporary artist Alia Farid, who incorporates amulets, talismans, and faience into her art, breathing new life into them in a modern context.
Create your own lucky amulet in our amulet workshop in the Central Hall* and end the evening to the sounds of Bilal Irshed on oud and Rasmus Møldrup on bass.
Feeling hungry? Enjoy a delicious meal and refreshments in the museum café.
Entry to the Glyptotek that evening requires a Culture Pass. Buy online or at 7-Eleven stores.
*While supplies last.
Program
Alia Farid – Soundings of the Earth: Introduction
6:15 PM – 10:15 PM
The exhibition A Sounding of the Earth presents works by Kuwaiti-Puerto Rican artist Alia Farid. At the Glyptotek, Farid showcases two pieces that together form a network of protective places and objects within the museum’s architecture. Among the Glyptotek’s own collections of migrated objects, Farid’s works invite us to question the forces that control the movement of bodies, objects, and species across borders and through time.
Introductions are available in Danish and English.
The Power of Amulets and Talismans: Guided Introductions
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Explore the Glyptotek’s collection of amulets and protective symbols. Throughout the evening, there will be introductions to some of the many amulets and symbols found in the museum. Learn more about the museum’s collection of Medusa amulets, Egyptian amulets, and hear about the Ankh symbol and the luck-bringing demon god Bes.
Introductions are available in Danish and English.
Amulet Workshop
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
In the Banquet Hall, there will be an amulet workshop. We’ll be working with beads, and you’ll have the opportunity to create your own lucky amulet. There are rugs to sit on, and our hosts will share stories about amulets, offer inspiration, and assist you throughout.
Music
9:45 PM – 11:15 PM
The unique instrument—the oud—is over 3,000 years old, nearly as ancient as the pyramids. Bilal Irshed brings this historic instrument to life in a contemporary way. Each tone blends the depth of Arabic musical tradition with experimental sounds and new harmonic perspectives. Together with bassist Rasmus Møldrup, Bilal takes the audience on a musical journey where intricate strokes merge with flowing bass lines and vibrant rhythms, creating a soundscape that is both rooted in tradition and modern in expression. Bilal has performed for many years both in Denmark and internationally, captivating audiences worldwide with his distinctive musical voice and stage presence. In 2024, Bilal Irshed received the Wilhelm Hansen Honorary Award for his outstanding musicality and his ability to build cultural bridges through music.
Picnic Serves Dinner, Drinks, and Snacks in the Museum Café
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
At the Glyptotek’s café, Picnic, you can purchase a delicious dinner until 8:30 PM. Throughout the evening, drinks and snacks will be available for purchase.