The Honeybee Tribe and their Inspiring Symbolism

What most people don't know about me.....I am a politics and news junkie. I follow on several different sources to learn as much as I can, because while I know many people think it to be depressing...I believe that Knowledge is Power. Between the state of our politics and the seemingly endless run of tragedies in the news, I am deeply saddened for us as people. Often I am shaking my head in disbelief, simply bewildered because some days it seems that we Humans haven't evolved at all. 

I watch growing numbers of people allowing their Fears to take over their spirit, sometimes to the point that their authentic soul becomes unrecognizable. The Scales of Balance are tipping out of control, and Kindness and Empathy are becoming overrun by Anger and Bigotry. 

The other day I sat on the porch and was thinking on the Honeybee. I thought about them as a huge family...a Tribe..and how they all worked together as a collective for the greater good...for a purpose. As humans we often will say..."What can I do? I'm just one person." But, I just can't buy into that precept. 

When you look at the Honeybees, yes, they do a vast amount of work as a whole....but each individual bee is busy making change, hard at work, and his work makes a difference in the world. We humans are the same. It may seem like "How could I possibly make a difference in the world?" but truly it starts with each one of us....doing the work...being kind...having empathy and understanding..and Love. We must not let the Fear and Anger  steal the goodness in our hearts. 

The Honeybee Tribe is my reminder. 

The Turtle Warrior

I may be soft and vulnerable underneath

but I carry an exterior of Strength...

I may not be moving fast enough for you

but I am taking thoughtful caring Steps....

I may appear to be an empty shell

but inside this vessel I have the capability of producing bountiful life

I am delicate

I am a warrior

I am a mother

I am a woman

I am a Caretaker of the Earth.

I am Life. 

The Lizard Keeper

She walks with Lizard Medicine, the wisdom she carries from her life-long totem the lizard. The lizard has taught her to trust in her dreams and in her intuition, for she alone has the best answers for the life she lives. The lizard has also taught her to watch over and protect her highest good. She now understands and can recognize when something no longer serves her and with that she has learned how to let those things go with grace and moves on. She knows that she needs to tend to her own needs first, before she can help anyone else. She is the Lizard Keeper.

This painting, “The Lizard Keeper”, is a contemporary folk art painting by Jeanne Fry. It was created with acrylics on a 12 inch x 12 inch canvas. The background is layered with primitive spirals done in yellow ochre, titanium white, and burnt orange with hints of turquoise under the layers. The head and shoulders of the native woman can be seen amidst the spirals, her face raised slightly towards the sun and it’s brilliant rays. She wears two feathers in her hair and a bone choker around her neck. Her lizard totem is painted embraced around the side and top of her head. A spiral sun is painted on the lizard. 

**You can read more in depth about the Lizard Totem on one of my previous posts dedicated to the Lizard here on my blog http://consciousartstudios.blogspot.com/2012/02/lizard-totem-and-its-symbolic-meaning.html

The painting is signed on the front, signed and titled on the back, and sealed with a satin finish. The sides of the canvas are painted black to give it a clean contemporary feel. Gallery wire is installed on the back for ease in wall hanging. 

© Copyright Jeanne Fry    All Rights Reserved

Fox Totem Symbolic Meaning

The Fox is often misunderstood and is an amazing totem to work with. I consider them the teachers of "street smarts", useful when you know where you want to be but need to figure out how to "get there". This beautiful world is full of miracles and opportunities, but that does not take away its ability to be challenging and competitive. We also learn when we get out into the world, that not everyone thinks like we do, and that there are people who do not live with every one's higher good in mind. The Fox totem can help us learn to navigate those waters, not by changing the essence of our own spirit, but by using subtle tools. 

For instance, the Fox is symbolic for camouflage and blending into his environment. Sometimes the act of being still or quiet and blending in allows us to be able to see and hear things that we might not notice otherwise...things that are important to know about our journey. It takes us out of our "me" oriented mode and fosters an opportunity to see the bigger picture or more aspects of a situation. 

When the Fox runs, his tail extends straight out from his body. This is an aspect of Balance. It allows the fox to run and turn with and ease and flow, while staying on course...no distractions, no breaking of the focus, just determined on the "getting there". 

They are perceptive and keen, relying heavily on their senses and their intuition. When they combine this with the capability of camouflage, they can be a mighty hunter. Their hunting mode is also one of their unique aspects -  being a smaller animal they can use a "charming" technique, that throws their prey off. While they are part of the canine family, their mannerisms are more likened to the feline family and the feminine. 

The Fox protect themselves with their large fluffy tail, wrapping it around themselves to guard against the elements. This symbolism can be taken further teaching one to be diligent in protecting themselves from the harshness of others by creating a protective field around themselves. 

All of these things that define the Fox allow him to reach his wants and needs, doing so in a bit more subtle yet defined manner, focused on the goal while being aware, being immensely creative and intuitive, and all the while knowing when they need to shield themselves. 

Sunrise on Sacred Lands - Visionary Folk Art by Jeanne Fry

Being fully connected with something bigger than yourself....when every moment of your being breathes in sacredness, effortlessly....when one is committed to living consciously....These are the feelings that I wanted to portray in my newest painting, "Sunrise on Sacred Lands".

As an original piece of Visionary Folk Art, it speaks of the spiritual soul on their journey.

The native woman's connection with Mother Earth is shown by her waking from her sleep, lying nestled in  the rolling hills as if they were warm woolen blankets. Her frame drum is her pillow, referencing her connection with the heartbeat of life and ability to stay in the present moment. She is encompassed within the lightning bolt path (energy) that leads her to the Tree of Life and seasons of her spirit. 

The Turtle Totem (symbolic of Motherhood) is shown climbing the tree, watching over Earth's children. The majestic Eagle can be seen flying over the water and through the glow of the sunrise. Its importance here, for Creation and the evolution  of the Soul.

Faint tribal designs, like etchings, can be seen blended into the background, it subtlety like the wisdom we carry...engrained in our blueprint from our ancestors. And lastly, the prayer feathers standing in the soil next to the woman...for her morning prayers and gratefulness. 

As she wakes  she is aware of All this, soaking in every detail and thankful for her part in it.

Working with the Otter Totem for the New Year

There's not enough Happiness in the world today. Yes, there are pockets of people who are happy or at least content, but if you truly look around......there is such a huge amount of sadness, stress, anger, and negativity. Wars, hate crimes, bullying, and violence spill over our communities and touch us all. These atrocities are not just happening across the oceans, but are right here in our sights.  Sometimes you never know how close.....like the girl in the coffee shop who is frustrating you by making you a latte when you asked for a cappuccino. While you get stressed that you're going to be late for work, she hurriedly starts over, while her mind keeps flashing back to the beating she endured from her husband the night before. Or the boy who lives next door, the trouble maker on the block...while his parents stand over him, screaming at him for breaking the neighbor's windows, his mind is somewhere else thinking of the bully at school who embarrassed him to tears in front of their classmates.

Our hearts, souls, and our Earth are all being affected by this.

Our happiness has to begin with ourselves, so we can then spread that light to others. What better animal totem to learn from but the Otter.

The Otter represents a pure joy. Their character is one of curiosity and living in the moment. Even though they have work to do, they are able to infuse their playfulness and make those times full of smiles. They tackle each action as if it is the first time, symbolic of Life being an Adventure. The Otter emits Happiness, changing the energy of those around them. Everyone could learn from the Otter's wisdom.

Monarch Migration - Advocating through Art to Raise Awareness of their Decline

The existence of one of  Mother Earth's most popular and well known creatures, the Monarch Butterfly, is in danger. The delicate little beauty has amazed us with its endurance and ability to travel its 3000 mile migration to its winter habitat in Mexico each year. Their arrival coincides with the widely celebrated Day of the Dead festival, symbolically being said that they represent the ancestral spirits that are being celebrated. 

"Monarch Migration" Original Painting by Jeanne Fry

The Monarch's numbers have dropped drastically, one study showing a decrease from 1 billion of these orange beauties, down to 35 million. Several factors are being attributed to this decrease, notably an increase in logging in their Mexico habitat as well as a decrease in Milkweed. Milkweed is important to the Monarch and is in decline because it is treated as a weed by farmers. 

People ask, "What can I, a single person, do to change the decline of the Monarchs?"

One simple remedy that can help save the Monarchs is to alter our behavior in the destruction of Milkweed as a nuisance. Thanks to an article from National Geographic I was able to find some Milkweed Resources.

Milkweed Seed Finder

The National Resources Defense Council has a funded project that provides Free Milkweeds to schools and non-profits, an excellent social justice program for children to be involved in. 

Free Milkweeds for Schools and Non-Profits

Monarch Watch is another valuable resource for this effort

Monarch Watch

You can also look to see if there is a Training Center near you, with a Monarch Larva Monitoring project. You can find more information about a program near you here

Monarch Larva Monitoring Project

Butterfly Totem Symbolic Meaning:

Butterflies represent Change and Transformation, the Joy of life, and Presence in the Moment. They help in reminding us to Keep it Simple, and look at what is truly important. The Butterfly encourages us not to fear change, but embrace it, for Life IS change.

Giraffe Totem and its Symbolic Meaning

The Giraffe Totem is one of the most unique,beautiful and graceful mammals. His symbolism is deeply meaningful, representative of one being balanced and trusting in themselves in order to "see" where they are going and how to get there. The giraffe's tall height keeps his head in the skies, lending to a stronger connection with his higher self and the Divine, while his long legs keep him grounded and balanced in his decisions.The act of sight is indicative of being perceptive, aware, and intuitive. 

They are social creatures, affectionate, and enjoy being near one another. They are mostly silent, only occasionally making any sound, but will communicate with others through their bodies and actions. This is especially true of the mother and the baby giraffe. She will often extend her love, bending down to nuzzle and be close to her young one. Their bond and expressiveness are symbolic of close families and relationships. 

The Giraffe totem is a very useful totem to learn from for those who have goals and dreams they are trying to realize, or are trying to formulate new directions on their path.

This painting has SOLD, but you can order a Print of it from our Fine Art America Shop here
Mother and Baby Giraffe Art Print on Fine Art America

Turtle Moon - The Creation of the Sky

I am intrigued by the Sky. Every element of it brings me joy and wonderment. I sometimes sit in the evenings gazing at the Moon and the Stars and my imagination will wander. Fragments of stories will flow on how things could possibly "be" in that realm. I often drift away from the science part of it and entertain stories of how things might exist there otherwise. That is how my painting, "Turtle Moon" came to be.

One evening the Moon was as large as it could possibly be. The child-like part of me started thinking about how heavy it was and how it could just hang in the sky as it does. Surely it was being held by something. A vision of a very large turtle came. 

I could see Mother Turtle walking along the edge of the Earth. Her shell was translucent and you could see the stars twinkling through each section. As her feet slowly stepped along the Earth, the tip of the Moon was resting on her back. I thought "My goodness, Mother Turtle, isn't the Moon too heavy for you to be carrying?"  She replied "No, certainly not. The Moon needs help glowing her magical shine on the Earth. I'm happy to help." 

Then I thought about the portrait of the sky scene and how that could possibly be hanging for all of us to see. Mother Turtle whispered to me "Look closer,dear. All will be revealed". As I squinted to look harder, I saw her children helping her. Her son and daughter, one in front and one behind, were holding large bundles of black balloons and the stars were inside them. Again I exclaimed, "Oh my, don't they get tired holding all of those balloons in their mouths while walking through the night?" Mother Turtle said "No, they don't get tired. It brings them joy and they are happy to help." 

I closed my eyes and thought about all of the beings who's unseen actions go unnoticed while they do their part to create our World. They continue to do so everyday, because they are happy to help.

And so it is.

Thank you for letting me share my story with you.

This painting has been sold.

The Great Horned Owl Symbolic Meaning - Under the Terracotta Moon

I was recently inspired while camping at a mountainous state park to create "Under the Terracotta Moon". I sat and listened one evening to the call of an owl. There were five syllables in his call, a common trait of the Great Horned Owl. I had my painting satchel with me and some wood canvases, and soon began to paint.

It was dusk when I began, and under the light of the lantern I brought forth a blue purple sky to give it a spiritual mystical backdrop. I meditated on the Great Horned and visualized him sitting regal on a branch, the Strong Warrior that he is. I could imagine him as a "warrior" because of his great strength and skill at hunting. Even though he is a Winged One associated with the Sky, he has an important connection with the Earth allowing him to hunt such a wide array of prey.

This Earth Connection was related in the painting by the color scheme used in his feathers - of terracotta, raw sienna, and shades of brown. The moon that shone above him was adorned with four of his feathers. The silhouette of a dream catcher was painted over the moon, accented with pieces of turquoise, symbolic for keeping the sleeping mind focused on positive adventures. 

I wanted him to represent being comfortable in his space, as the Great Horned Owls become permanent residents of their territories once they have mated. 

The following morning I continued with the painting, working on the detail in his feathers and his insightful eyes.

The Great Horned Owl is a beautiful animal totem to work with for those that desire the wisdom needed to become a Master of their own life, to obtain that which they seek, and to have a balanced confidence in doing so. The tufts that are on top of his head are not ears nor horns, but are feather tufts. Still they are symbolic for being able to "hear" what is not being said. This makes one more successful in their seeking by being aware of their environment physically and spiritually.

The Goodnight Kiss between Mother Sun and Father Moon

Mother Sun and Father Moon share a deep love from a distance. Each spend their days separately, watching over the sky, yet admiring the others Light. They were meant to exist connected yet apart. They are afforded a very small window of time at Dusk when the two can meet, and they cherish each moment they are given.

They long for one another and wish they could be together more, but their love for the Universe and their roles in it is just as great. So they accept the relationship for what it is, making their minutes together even sweeter.
Father Moon is quite sure that after seeing his love for those few moments that his own light shines even deeper and brighter throughout the night. He pays special attention to love struck travelers, and moves in closer to guide their way.
Mother Sun watches over with a special affection for those that feel a loss of love or have a sad heart, inspiring her to shine ever more brightly to console them.
Mother Sun and Father Moon are the first of all "star crossed lovers".

The Peacock Warrior Woman

How She Came to Be

The Peacock Warrior Woman has evolved after many years of nurturing her awareness during her daily meditations sitting underneath the Tree of Life. A family of peafowl were always present when she would visit. During her meditations she would gaze into the eyes of the peacocks feathers while she accessed her higher self. Over time after her prolonged connections with the peafowl, she began absorbing the wisdom of the peacock totem, or their  "medicine" we would say. Grandfather Peacock remains her closest companion to this day as they fill their visits with conversations of Philosophy and Meaning of Life.

  In her enlightened state she carries a balance between masculine and feminine qualities. This  allows her the gifts  of discernment and decisiveness  from the feminine side, while the extraordinary plumage from the masculine side brings an increased connection with her intuition and vision. 

What She Gives to the World

 The Peacock Warrior Woman is now a Guide, a Guide for those who are on their spiritual journey of reclaiming their inner spirit. The search to find the pieces of ourselves that we have lost or given away over the years is her primary focus, for she herself knows  the feeling of waking up and feeling as if something is missing. She "gifts" one of her feathers to those who are seeking, to help them connect with their own higher selves during meditation, to heighten their skills of awareness, and to access their intuition in a strong and consistent manner. 

The original Contemporary Folk painting of "The Peacock Warrior Woman" was created by Jeanne Fry. It is listed for sale in our Etsy shop where you can also see more photos and learn about the dimensions.

SOLD

The Wishing Tree Symbolism of Hope and Dreams

The "Wishing Tree" is always here for you. It stands tall and strong with a glow of purity and wisdom. Swirls of healing colors climb through its trunk, welcoming its visitors, inviting one to sit and make a wish. Each white leaf represents a guardian who is there to help. Offshoots of leaf stars peak through the tree, these for the wishing of "big" dreams.

When one desires to make a wish they choose a leaf and that guardian helps bring it to fruition. The only thing that the Wishing Tree asks in return is that you sit and tell it a story...your story. The Tree loves to listen and will keep the strictest confidence. 

The "Wishing Tree" is always here for you. It's right in the middle of your dreams.

Luna Moth - Her Gift and Symbolism

The Luna Moth (Polyphemus Moth - Antheraea Polypehmus)  may be considered one of the most Spiritual and Mystical of animal totems. To meet one is a special gift, for when she is in her adult moth stage she only lives for approximately one week. While living through their adult moth life they do not eat, for they have no mouth. One might say that their purpose is to reproduce, but I say it is to Love. They are born, they transform, they love, they die, and then are again reborn. Their cycles are short, as are our years while we are here.
We are reminded to make the most of our moments and to Live and Love to the fullest. It is an appreciation for the simple magic of existence, and to explore it with excitement.

Luna Moth Art Print https://jean-fry.pixels.com/products/moth-study-jean-fry-art-print.html

 She is most often seen in the evenings, attracted to the moon and to light. She speaks of our connection to the Feminine, our inner spirit, trust in ourselves and our intuition. We learn of the importance in finding the balance between light and dark, the seen and the unseen.

She is a reminder that when all is said and done, our Healing, Authenticity, and Sense of Love are the ultimate journey.

Luna Moth - Her Gift and Symbolism Art Print https://jean-fry.pixels.com/products/the-luna-moth-journey-of-faith-and-love-jean-fry-art-print.html

I brought the beauty of the Luna Moth into one of my new paintings, titled "The Symbolic Journey of Faith and Love". It was created in an Art Nouveau style, bringing the White Butterflies, Dragonfly, and Luna Moths into the Mandala design.

Luna Moth Weekender Tote Bag https://jean-fry.pixels.com/products/moth-study-jean-fry-weekender-totebag.html

Luna Moth Study Artwork Coffee Mug https://jean-fry.pixels.com/products/moth-study-jean-fry-coffee-mug.html

Luna Moth Gift and Symbolism Artwork Coffee Mug https://jean-fry.pixels.com/products/the-luna-moth-journey-of-faith-and-love-jean-fry-coffee-mug.html 

 

The Luna Moth is one of my favorite totems. Isn't it grand that such a small piece of beauty, can make us gasp in delight like when we were children?

The Spirit of the Luna Moth is captured in this Handmade Gourd Art Bowl with Dried Grass Lacing. It was created using a beautiful gourd from one of our local gourd farms, the cleaned and cut into its shape. Using leather acrylics, the background of the gourd was painted in blended shades of browns with hints of mint green and beige running through it. - See more at: http://jeannefryart.indiemade.com/product/luna-moth-painted-gourd-art-bowl-dried-grass-lacing-earthy-decor-jeanne-fry#sthash.NyaYdDyG.dpuf

Creation of a Star Being, a Symbolic Celestial Folk Art Painting

Sometimes when you are gazing up at the night's starry sky you can see that some of the stars are shining much more brightly than others. It could be the size of the star, or it could be the distance of the stars, or it could be that you have spotted a Star Being.

"Creation of a Star Being" an Original Contemporary Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

Star Beings are like angels of the sky. They help with wish making. 

The Star Beings watch over us. Even when we can't see them through cloudy nights, they are still present. 

They whisper answers to the Moon, answers that can help us as we strive for our dreams. When the Moon becomes Full...it is filled to the brim with guidance for us. All we need do is Ask....and Listen.

**This is the third painting in a Celestial themed series I have been creating.

SOLD

Deer Totem Meaning - Connecting with Inner Wisdom Original Painting by Jeanne Fry

Humans have been enchanted with Deer since existence. While they have been the most popular animal with hunters for ages, I think the attraction to them goes deeper than obtaining their hide or meat for sustenance.

Deer have been symbolic for purity and innocence, and represent Nature itself. They remind us to keep our connection with the Earth and to appreciate each moment as it comes and be grateful. They could be considered the Master Teacher of totems because of the vastness of the lessons that can be learned. They are adaptable, and can live and thrive in nearly any environment. Their diet is diverse allowing them to live in almost any region. They can eat grasses, legumes, mushrooms, cacti, corn, fruit, clover, leaves, and acorns.

"Protection" Deer Totem Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

Deer have keen senses and use them all, including their intuition. They use their perceptions as they journey through their day, but they do not allow fear to prevent them from "living". When they feel there is danger they will raise their tail showing the white underneath to alert other deer.

The family unit is important to the female, as she spends the first few days alone with her fawn, bonding. Even as the fawn are growing, they stay with their mothers for a considerable span of time - males stay for a year, females for two years. This is a reminder to us of the importance of Bonding time with our own children.

The Antlers are symbolic of Intuition, as they grow from behind the eyes. Deer teaches us to trust in our gut feelings, as our inner self always "knows". This sense of intuition allows them to protect themselves and their families.

Deer teaches us to reconnect with our authentic self, to keep life simple, bond with family, trust in our inner knowing, and be adaptable for survival. They are symbolic for the cycle of life, enjoying each moment, and being grateful. They innately understand being in the present moment and making the most of each of them.

**This is one of my original paintings that I have titled "Protection", representing the Deer's haven or sacred space. Here they can always feel safe, as the Antler Tree watches over them. The mother can spend the time she needs with the fawn, teaching it about the ways of the world.

Sacred Geometry and the Goddess Within Fine Art Print by Jeanne Fry

The Goddess sees the intricate make-up of that which surrounds her, the symbolic meaning of each detail, and the Sacred Geometry that weaves them all together. When closing her eyes her spirit feels the richness of the fabric that constructs her own temple.

"Sacred Geometry" an original Contemporary Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

 It is here that Healing comes forth for herself and those that she touches. She is the Divine Feminine, bringing the Healing Light of protection and peace to those she watches over.

The Portrayal of the Painting:

The colors of indigo and blues are used in the painting to bring forward a Soothing Serenity. The representation of the Moon and her Eyes being closed portray her intuitive sense. The Face that appears on the bodice of her dress stand for her Peace and Knowing. The Honey Amber Clouds in the sky are symbolic for her Creativity and Ability to bring things to Life - the Womb of Life of the Feminine. Her dress is created with Geometric Shapes to represent the Divine in Sacred Geometry. 

The painting was done with acrylics on a 12x16 Canvas Panel.

The Original of this painting has sold. It is available as an Art Print in my Fine Art America online shop here
Goddess of Sacred Geometry Art Print on Fine Art America

Hedgehog Totem Meaning

When meeting a Hedgehog many will immediately feel caution because of his "spiked" appearance. Of course you are supposed to feel guarded, as this was Mother Nature's way of providing him protection. When they feel threatened they will curl up into a ball, tricking their predator into thinking they would not be a good meal. Hedgehog teaches us that it is not always wise to let our vulnerabilities show to those we are unsure of.

Hedgehog Totem Original Painting ATC Card by Jeanne Fry

These little wonders of nature are called "Hedgehogs" because they forage and hunt through low lying brush, undergrowth, bushes and hedges. They are resourceful and meticulous in their daily living, which is another good lesson. The Hedgehog reminds us to take our time and we will see opportunities that are available. 

Most species are nocturnal, similar to the opossum. This is symbolic of being connected to the dream time and one's own intuition. The hedgehog can remind one to trust their gut feelings and protect themselves when need be. It is the "knowing" that helps one along their path, suggesting doors of opportunity and to be patient in the lessons.

Thank you for visiting my blog. If you are enchanted with this little Hedgehog painting, it is done on an ATC (Artist Trading Card), that is available in our Artfire Shop here

Hedgehog Totem Artist Trading Card Painting

Faith Hope and Charity Symbolism of the Saints in Folk Art

My interpretation of Faith, Hope & Charity is one of the most important and endearing paintings I have created in my career as an artist. At the age of four I was in the hospital for major surgery. This was a very prevalent time in my life, a time in which I had my first very spiritual moment. Of course at the time I didn't realize that... when you are young everything is magical. Those were the times when our  hearts were pure and filled with love, undamaged from hurts and events. Those were the times when we felt that anything was possible and that each little thing we would see and touch was miraculous.

Faith Hope & Charity, Contemporary Folk Art by Jeanne Fry

After my surgery I felt the presence of an angel beside me, watching over, and I knew even being so young that everything was going to be okay. I knew that I was not alone and even on a dark day, I was loved. 

During that hospital stay, a stranger had gifted me....a gift that I still have to this day. It was a painting of Faith, Hope, & Charity. I knew that it was special and treasured that painting. Throughout my life, as things get lost, thrown out, or given away...that painting has always stayed with me. And when things in life creep up on me and consume me with fear, for some reason that painting will briefly pop into my mind, reminding me..that I am loved, cared for, watched over, and that everything will work out.

Recently these three spiritual beings have been on my mind a great deal. I knew one evening that I needed to paint them as I see them, and in doing so feel a greater connection with them. Once I began painting I did not stop until I was finished, so as not to lose the connectedness of their love, knowing that these three saints may bring the same level of comfort to someone else.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share them with you and their story. If you would like to learn more about the painting, or adopt it, you can find it in our Artfire Shop here

Faith Hope and Charity Folk Art Painting on Artfire

It is also available as an Art Print in our Fine Art America online shop. There you can order it as a print, matted and framed, on canvas, on metal, or as a greeting card.
Faith Hope and Charity Art Print on Fine Art America

Cardinal Totem and its Symbolic Meaning

Recently I have been very attracted to the Cardinal Totem, especially since I have a male and female couple that have taken up residence nearby and come to visit me every day. Watching the tender care they give one another , and the special balance they exhibit between being assertive and being passive have given me many contemplative mornings.

Their beautiful red color represents vitality, strength, and standing in one's own power. They remind us not to be afraid to be ourselves, and when we're feeling spent and burned out, there is always tomorrow to try again. They are definitely a "follow your passion" totem.

We live in a woodland area where there is an abundance of birds, but I have become very attuned to the cardinal voice. The female is just as vocal as the male, which is not usual among most birds. It calls to us as women to speak our truth, and to do so with grace. 

The cardinal is a beautiful totem to work with, teaching us balance between Passion and Responsibility, between Assertiveness and Grace, and to never give up.

Cardinal Totem Original Painting Bookmark by Jeanne Fry

This morning while painting, I decided to create a Cardinal Totem on a few bookmarks.

The Cardinal Bookmark has been sold.