In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into a myriad of topics ranging from the complexities of curatorial practice in art to the secular study of religion. Nico Sarian guides us through an intellectual journey that stretches from the art scene in Moscow to the academic corridors of the University of Toronto, touching on astrology, Zen Buddhism, and the nature of suffering along the way. Prepare for a multi-layered discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and explores the intersections of art, religion, and culture.

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Early Life and Academic Background

• Nico Sarian began his career journey after completing high school and entering the world of fashion.
• Intrigued by the art world, he transitioned into academia due to a spiritual crisis.
• Nico studied art history and philosophy at King's College in London, and this led to work as an art curator in Moscow.

Defining a Curator

• According to Nico, the role of a curator involves managing a triangle between works of art, the public, and the space or architecture.
• Failing to manage all three elements would reduce a curator to merely a critic.
• The role of a curator is likened to that of a priest in that they serve as a mediator between these elements.

Evolution into Religious Studies

• Nico later began teaching at a British art college in Moscow, which fueled his interest in theory, aesthetics, and teaching.
• After discovering the field of religious studies, he started studying it in a secular context at the University of Toronto.

Influence of Russian Culture

• Nico spent considerable time in Russia and was in a relationship with a Russian woman for four to five years.
• He studied the Russian language to immerse himself fully in the culture, stating that Russia felt like another planet to him.

Esoteric Studies

• Nico discussed various aspects of astrology, Zen Buddhism, and Shintoism.
• He mentioned Richard Tarnas as a researcher who places astrology in a historical context and contrasts Vedic and Western astrology.
• The demotion of Pluto to an asteroid sparked a debate about its relevance in modern astrology and contemporary life.

The Philosophical Angle

• Nico is a critic of modernity and holds a deep academic viewpoint.
• His questioning of our modern belief systems was influenced by philosophers like Bruno Latour, who claimed, “We have never been modern.”

Questioning Religion and Spirituality

• Nico wrestles with the concept of secularism in religious studies.
• His inability to give a straight answer to whether he believes in God stems from his view that the term 'secular' is an illusion.

Life Philosophy

• Nico argues that suffering is not a problem; rather, it's the inability to deal with suffering that becomes the problem.
• He spent three years studying Sanskrit and used the term “Duhka” to discuss the concept of suffering.

Future Directions

• Nico mentioned the idea of creating an infinite discussion board that incorporates various perspectives, aiming to foster and create symbolic capital.

The episode delved into Nico's multifaceted life journey, from art and fashion to philosophy and religious studies. He provided a comprehensive view of how different disciplines intersect and inform each other, offering a critique of modernity along the way.