Alchemy and the Art of Failure, talk by Eliza Swann

This talk explores how alchemy, often dismissed for its perceived "failures" to create elixirs of immortality and gold in laboratories, actually offers a powerful lesson: failure can offer more creative, cooperative, and magical ways of being in the world. Alchemists like Hennig Brand, John Dee, and Lady Isabella Cortese may not have succeeded in their literal quests for the elusive elixir of life or the transmutation of lead into gold, but they sparked something greater than their original goals. Drawing from Jack Halberstam's "The Queer Art of Failure" and the history of alchemy, we will examine how missing the mark can open up exciting new ways of being alive. We will conclude with a simple ritual to honor our own beautiful failures. This talk is open to anyone, regardless of their level of experience with alchemy.

TICKETS $20 (in-person and online tickets available)

Recordings of the event will be sent a few days following the event and will be available for 2 weeks

Please email events@prs.org or phone 323-663-2167 if you have any questions.

Eliza Swann, aka Emerald, is an interdisciplinary artist, writer, and educator based in New York. They are the author of The Anatomy of the Aura (St. Martin’s, 2020), Green Mary (Cosmic Dog House Press, 2024), and The Alchemical Imagination (Weiser/Red Wheel, 2026.) Their writing has appeared in many places, including BOMB, Arthur, Contemporary Art Review LA, and Momus. Eliza is currently faculty at Pratt Institute, where they teach literature and alchemy. Eliza received a BA in Painting from the San Francisco Art Institute and an MFA from Central St. Martins in London. Eliza is also the founder of Golden Dome and now Emerald School of Alchemical Arts, alternative mystery schools that explore the mystical dimensions of art. Emerald School produces exhibitions, performances, classes, and publications throughout the year.

ACCESSIBILITY

PRS wants all guests to be able to enjoy our events safely and comfortably. If you require any accessibility accommodation, please reach out to events@prs.org before showtime and we will be happy to assist you.

REFUND POLICIES

All sales are final. There are no refunds for PRS events , except in the event of a medical emergency, including but not limited to a positive COVID-19 test. Ticket exchanges may be granted on a case by case basis, pending circumstances.

In the event that PRS is forced to cancel an event entirely, tickets will be refunded or vouchers offered for a rescheduled event.

PARKING

Limited parking is available onsite at PRS in both the front lot (entry from Los Feliz Blvd. when heading east) and back lot (entry from first alley way, off Griffith Park Blvd. from intersection with Los Feliz Blvd.), as well as street parking on Griffith Park Blvd. and (after 7 PM) on Los Feliz Blvd. We encourage attendees to consider carpooling, walking or biking to events if possible, and please be considerate of our Los Feliz neighbors when parking.

PRS EVENT POLICIES

• We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone.
• Events are subject to change without notice, including guest speakers and/or performers.
• We encourage you to arrive at least 30 min. before the scheduled event start time to find parking, enjoy the Bookstore and take your seats.
• Please turn off all mobile devices before the show. Talking and texting are not allowed during the events.
• No filming, audio recording or mobile phone recording of events, screenings, concerts or other programs by audience members is allowed without permission.
• There is no smoking permitted on PRS grounds.
• We strongly encourage guests to wear masks to PRS events to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
• PRS allows Service Animals into the facility under ADA and state guidelines. For further details please visit www.ADA.gov. No animals permitted whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support, under ADA guidelines and CA Health Code.
• Please do not bring outside food or drink into PRS events.
• Weapons are strictly prohibited at PRS events.