THE BARGAIN OF EDEN (2017)

Tom Herck’s The Bargain of Eden reimagines the story of Adam and Eve within the context of a Monopoly game, exploring themes of trade, negotiation, and human interactions.

The artwork places Adam and Eve in a Monopoly setting, with symbols that link biblical narratives to contemporary ideas of trade. The stained-glass Monopoly board adds depth, blending nostalgia with the negotiation scene between Adam, Eve, and the serpent. Various Monopoly symbols adapted to the Garden of Eden theme highlight the connection between trade and the biblical story.

Herck’s use of humor and subtle references, like his upside-down logo and the substitution of a judge for a policeman, adds layers to the work. By framing the story of Adam and Eve within a Monopoly game, the piece prompts viewers to reflect on how trade, negotiation, and human relationships have shaped society.

© Text by Lara van Oudenaarde.
© Photos by Tom Herck.