Moths. So much rich symbolism within the moth. Always brave and bold, moving toward the flame in the middle of the darkness, the moth is optimistic and passionate in its determined pursuit, even as it risks being burned. 

In this piece, the moth is grounded within her silver triangle while also being supported by the moon and interlinked circles of unity & community.

I love that this piece from the Animal Shield collection is reminiscent of an ancient shield. I imagine it hanging on a wall and calling in protection of the earth and connection to the magic of the natural world. 

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I created Animal Shields this Spring/Summer, as Covid-19 swept the world and we were asked to Shelter In Place for our collective health & safety. I had moved out of my shared studio and was working on a folding table in my living room.  

As we moved through the months, data indicated that carbon emissions reduced significantly as the roads were less traveled by cars and our skies had fewer airplanes. Polluted air cleared when factories (temporarily) closed. More people were recognizing that shopping local farms and small businesses was important to the wellbeing and livelihood of our communities. 

It almost seemed possible that the earth could take a moment to rest & heal herself. 

[Yes, I was trying to find a hopeful silver lining during these unprecedented and uncertain times.]

As you know, my art often features elements of the Natural world. During this pandemic time, when humans were causing less immediate damage to our earth's climate, I wondered how animals around the world were reacting when we stepped back from "normal" life. Were they potentially feeling more relaxed, brave, safe, and free? 

This was the initial impetus behind creating my Animal Shields collection. The strong pull of Progress & Productivity is relentless in our modern world and it can remove us from quiet, grounding connections we feel in the presence of plants, animals, and the Natural world. There are lessons to be learned when we pay attention. Animal Shields are symbolic reminders to protect and connect with those that share this Earth with us.

About this Original

This mixed media original is 16" wide x 14" tall x 2" deep on museum panel.  Each side measures 8 inches. It arrives ready to hang.