An enigmatic sign, the figure/form ‘X’ conjures multiple meanings as a symbol, number and text. Traversing cultures, beliefs and knowledge systems, an X can prohibit and denounce, approve and correct, combine and connect. As a figure, X expresses human presence - from a mark found in prehistoric caves to the symbol for a female chromosome universal to women and men. It encapsulates mystery and allure – an unknown variable, an axis on a map, sign of hidden treasure and signifies special qualities, the ‘X-factor’.