Imaginary beings – mythical creatures born out of the depth of cultural imagination – are more than mere figments of folklore. They embody complex ideas and reflect the values and beliefs of cultures that create them. By creating visual representations of abstract ideas, whether to depict a real phenomenon to make sense of the world around us or simply to entertain, these beings play significant roles in cultural narratives. This course delves into the rich visual and symbolic landscapes of mythical creatures and their visual representations and significance across various cultures. The course examines how these imagery beings are depicted in art, literature and media – from ancient folklore traditions to contemporary visual culture – and how they reflect and shape cultural narratives and collective cultural imaginations.