Re-visiting the Red Tailed Hawk and Soul Purpose Symbolism

I recently spent some time re-visiting the Red Tailed Hawk and his importance connected  with our Soul Purpose. I have studied on him before, spent time in connection and creation with this totem, but this week he has come back to me. 

When the Red Tailed has shown up as a totem for you he is forever connected, for he usually appears when you are making strides in your life toward living your true Soul Purpose. As we strive to live the life were meant to live there are times when we feel that we have reached a plateau...not necessarily "stuck", but may have the feeling as if we are just "dog paddling". Frustration can set in as we can sense when the next level is right at our fingertips, yet can seem unattainable. When that frustration is left unchecked, our visionary perceptions become dull. 

This is the time to reconnect with the Red Tailed, for he can help us remember that balance between reaching for the lofty heights and remaining strong and grounded. He can help us recognize when others around us may not have our higher good in mind, thwarting our efforts. He reminds us to draw our boundaries and protect our sacred self. He knows that stepping to the side for a moment, protected in our sacredness, allows us to access the situation more fully and find creative ways to move forward. It is that moment of remembering who we are and what we are seeking. 

He can guide is in utilizing our power, reminding is of the strength we carry, and to use our power with care.

As I get ready to move from the Winter's quiet time into the the New Beginnings of Spring, I am grateful for the reminder from the Red Tailed - reminding myself of who I am and where I am going. And for the knowing that I am Divinely Protected and Loved.

  

White Swan Symolism in an Affirmation Gourd Art Bowl

As we grow and change over the years the concept of Self Love becomes richer, deeper, and more authentic. While we have always known the importance of caring for ourselves and spent time grooming our self esteem, it often wasn't to its full potential. Those years of exploring life (developing relationships, marriages, divorces, having children, building careers)  are the layers of wisdom that we accrue that teach us what we are made of. Venturing through our life's lessons gives us a peak inside our soul to truly see our own authenticity. It is then that we can see the Beauty of our existence, and upon that realization we open ourselves and allow our vulnerable spirit to shine for others. We don't need to fear that openness, because just as our souls seem to have the delicacy of a feather ...they are also strong as steel. We can stand in our convictions and move through life with Grace. This space is our Personal Power, and it in itself is paradise. 

This is the wisdom that the White Swan teaches.

This weekend I created the White Swan Gourd Affirmation Bowl from the Earth's beauty of the Gourd. The bowl was meant to hold positive self love affirmations, treasures whispers of wisdom, so that on those days when you are feeling less than Beautiful and Powerful you can pull out an affirmation to meditate and focus on for the day.

I wrote three affirmations on handmade paper and have included them inside the vessel. You can then add more affirming quotes so that it filled to the rim with pick-me-ups for your Spirit. 

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 Equine Journey following the Horse Totem Path

Sometimes we feel stuck in life. Maybe it's the season, often winters can make us feel that way. Maybe it's the life events that are surrounding us, ours or someone Else's. And maybe it's our own ups and downs, the changing of our own rhythms, those times when we feel a lack in our own personal power. 

These are the times when I look to the Horse Totem. Recently I have gone back to visit the horse and his symbolism, doing so in physical life and within my artwork. Many times the way that I work with a totem is by painting them. The more I paint them, the more I can connect with their energy.

The Equine Journey by Jeanne Fry

 Horse Totem Symbolism

Long ago when the Horse was befriended to assist in our travels, he was looked at as a freeing agent. He could take you away from your little corner of the world and take you to unknown places. He would be your guide as you explored mysterious lands, not only on the physical plane but on a spiritual plane. Horse would remind you of the expansiveness of the Universe and of your own soul. As you rode, Father Wind would blow through your hair and across your face and cleanse you of stagnancy. 

The Horse offered a balance of not only stepping on this Earth, but also of connecting with the Sky. He confirms that all things are possible and that we are all truly important in the grand scheme of things. In essence All Things Are Possible.

The ride can invigorate the Spirit, and draw one away from feelings of being stuck. His soul and his lessons are so strong, that just standing with him...looking in his eyes....and stroking his cheek can have the same effect. He reminds us of the freedom that is possible within this vessel that we live in - that our soul's are boundless.

Working with the Horse Totem

When I sat down to work with the horse, the first painting I did last week was of "Running Horse" on a gourd art bowl. He spoke to me of Strength.

"Running Horse" Gourd Art Bowl - SOLD

This weekend I painted my second, "The Equine Journey", a pair of running horses. When examining them I see that the second feels more freeing, more earnest in his sprint. It has a feeling of the wildness and of the Run.

"The Equine Journey" Gourd Art Bowl - For Sale

I now anticipate the next Horse painting and the lessons that will come.

                                                                            SOLD

Emotional Healing with the Sea Turtle Totem and Reiki Symbols

My most recent painting is titled "Emotional Healing", and focuses on the Sea Turtle Totem and incorporation of Reiki Symbols. I was inspired to create a painting that would be soothing and be symbolic for the healing of our thoughts...feelings...and emotions. The Sea Turtle and the Water itself, both are symbolic of the Feminine, Motherhood, and the Nurturing that is involved with our personal growth and evolving as we age. They represent the ability to find balance in one's emotions, thereby being able to make solid choices that make both the heart and mind content. That balance also helps us to "ride the current", or ups and downs in life's journey.

"Emotional Healing" with the Sea Turtle Totem and Reiki Symbols by Jeanne Fry

As a Traditional Usui Reiki Master/Teacher, I decided to incorporate a few of the Reiki Healing Symbols into the painting, to amplify the healing effects. The Cho Ku Rei symbol is a power symbol, and was painted to boost the balancing aspects. The Sei He Ki is a specific symbol that is used for emotional and relationship healing. And I used a Contemporary Master Symbol, for Soul Healing and to represent the Light of the Awakened Heart. 

This is a powerful healing piece of artwork, that I envisioned could be used as a meditation tool, or to display in a massage therapist's or healer's office. The soothing calming color work and the symbolism is engaging and brings one to focus.

The Original Painting has sold. Art Prints of it are available in my Fine Art America online shop. They will ship directly to you.
Emotional Healing with the Sea Turtle Art Print

Honeybee Totem Meaning

The Honeybee has been gaining a tremendous amount of attention recently, due to their high importance in nature and the large loss in their population. Our human existence relies heavily on them, so I wanted to take some time to share their symbolic meaning.

The Honeybee and Daydreams of Honeycomb, a Contemporary Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

The Honeybee is quite complex in its design, living skills, and social community. 

Life as we know it depends on the skills of the Honeybee. Their productive lives pollinate plants and flowers, many of which would not have another source of pollinating without the bee. They have the ability to "taste" through their legs, so when they land on plants they are able to sense if there is nectar available. They can store pollen in special sacks on their hind legs to take back to their hives that can be combined with nectar to make "bee bread", a special food source for the bees.The pollen also can attached itself to hairs on the bee's legs that is then transferred from flower to flower as they are foraging....thus pollinating. While it may seem that they are simply creating their hive and honeycomb for their own benefit, in the "bigger picture" other species of life (including humans) depend on their work. They are symbolic of Fertility.

Each bee has its own place in their colony, be it the Queen Bee, Worker Bees, or Drones. All of them have a vital place in their community, with each one depending on another.  This dependence on one another is just like in our own human society, with each person contributing. We can not accomplish our goals alone, no matter how much we think that we can. We all rely on others to formulate our "world". 

The Honeybee is symbolic for being able to accomplish things that others thought we could not. For a long time people were perplexed at the fact that the honeybee could even fly. His body is much larger than his wings, and it was with wonderment that this creature could accomplish flight. Although simply, the bee is able to fly because of the high rate in speed that his wings flutter. This lets us know that no matter what challenges we have in our path, there is always a way to overcome. Persistence and hard work will help us succeed. 

Their winter survival again urges us in helping one another. They huddle together in their hive, with the Queen Bee in the center. All the other bees surround her to keep her warm, knowing that she is the source of life. The bees will rotate around her through the winter, so that no honeybee gets too cold.

The Honeycomb has its own special symbolism, with each section being in the shape of the 6 sided hexagon. The hexagon represents the Heart and the Sun, reminding us of the importance of Balance. We must work hard towards our dreams and goals, together and individually...but we must also "taste of the honey". In other words, we should reap the benefits of our hard work, enjoying what we have created. It is the balance of work and play, give and take.It is the cycle of life, and enjoying each moment as it is given to us.

The Original of this Painting as sold.

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

Healing Journey an Inspiration from Turtle Totem Symbolism

The turtle totem has always been present in my life since I was young. It wasn't until later that I actually formed an appreciation for its wisdom. Turtle's wisdom can be a wonderful addition on our  path. It teaches us about moving with the flow of life, having patience, learning tolerance, and how we perceive time. 

Healing Journey with the Turtle Totem by Jeanne Fry

Our journey in life is full of lessons, challenges, and joys. It has its ups and downs. One of the most important lessons we can learn from Turtle is to be consistent on the path, even when it feels like a roller coaster ride. It reminds us to just keep getting up every day and moving toward our dreams and goals. Some days may be harder than others, and some will be truly magical. It teaches us not to become consumed with the dramas, but to keep our sense of peace while we navigate. As long as we stay grounded, we can keep a perfect balance between our heart and our mind, producing positive choices as we travel this journey.

My newest painting, "Healing Journey", focused on the turtle totem. Within the painting, the turtle's shell is a map, representing our journey, reminding us of where we are going. This mixed media piece uses the addition of Golden's Fiber Paste to create mountains on the landscape (to represent our challenges). The turtle is surrounded by healing spirals, to represent the healing that occurs in our life as we navigate the journey.

Detail in Healing Journey Painting by Jeanne Fry

The Original of this painting has sold.It is available as an Art Print in our Fine Art America online shop here
Healing Journey with the Turtle Totem Art Print

The Council of the Winged Ones, Original Contemporary Folk Art

Over the past two years my art has been greatly inspired by Bird Totems. I have also focused a large amount of artwork around the Earth and Sky. The symbolism of the Winged Ones has enchanted me, for they are able to navigate the bridge between the Earth and Sky, representing their freedom of flight and being able to soar through life. They are able to wander through those things that are bigger than ourselves.

The Council of the Winged Ones, contemporary folk art by Jeanne Fry

For me personally, I know that as I move through periods of personal growth, bird totems are always present. They are here to inspire and broaden my perspectives on life and living. They remind me that all things are possible, and encourage me to stay connected to my higher self.

I brought this painting to life to represent the Winged Ones and their wisdom. They are represented as a council, bringing a call to order amongst themselves, to share their own wisdom on the paths that they follow. Their diversity as strong beings and teachers is of great importance as they come together in council. Their visions are shared for the greater good. 

Within the painting I brought together the Owl (wisdom and vision), the Crow (messages and manifestation), the Cardinal (strength of spirit, passion, inner voice), the Heron (transformation and grace), the Robin (periods of growth and opportunity), the Eagle (sacredness of Spirit and healing), the Bluejay (power and the right use of will), the Hummingbird ( happiness and enjoying the moment), and the Hawk ( power and vision).  The lessons and medicine that these Winged Ones bring is immense and symbolic for us two-leggeds. 

The Original Painting has sold. You can find Art Prints available of it in our Artfire Shop
Council of the Winged Ones Art Print 11x14 Available

It is also available as an Art Print in our Fine Art America online shop. They offer it as a print, matted and framed, on canvas, on metal, or as a greeting card.
Council of the Winged Ones Art Print on Fine Art America

Through the Elephants Eyes and the Elephant Totem Symbolic Meaning

Late on a Friday evening, while burning some Frangipani incense and drinking my usual Earl Grey tea, I took to the canvas with a different kind of inspiration. My senses were in a heightened state for the room was filled with the scent of cut roses, bundles of spearmint drying in the kitchen, and the rich soil on my garden gloves lying on the end table near the door. Blending that with the Frangipani and my tea, I realized I had an impromptu aromatherapy session going on.

 The creative inspiration that came forth was bringing visions of fiery reds, oranges, and yellows into my mind. Rich and Warm, vibrant and bold, the colors swirled in my belly. Immediately my mind wandered now to thoughts of an African landscape, the sun, and an elephant.

Through the Elephants Eyes, Contemporary Folk Art by Jeanne Fry

I knew that I had to paint the elephant. The elephant generally has poor eyesight and relies more on his sense of smell to guide him. How ironic that my sense of smell this evening led me to him.

I wanted the painting to reflect more of what the elephant totem could smell and feel, with the actual visuals being a little more subtle.

I wanted the richness of his surroundings to be dominant, with the color scheme making you immediately associate him in his own environment. 

Learning more about the elephant totems symbolism  gave me a much better understanding of his character, and a desire to carry some of its wisdom with me. Their size and strength is immediately apparent, but their softer compassionate side is often not thought of. They are deeply compassionate, tending to sick and injured ones as well as caring for those that are passing over. They carry great balance within themselves, bold and strong, gentle and loving. A wisdom we all need to carry with us. 

The other trait that I found of importance was the fact that the females will travel in packs. Their packs are comprised of all ages and led my an older wise one, all learning and caring for one another. It reminded me of that same special bond we can find in healthy women's circles and how completing that can be for a woman's spirit.

Through the Elephants Eyes, Original Painting by Jeanne Fry

My hope with this painting was to be able to stimulate the viewers senses, beyond the visual and the obvious.

The Original of this painting has sold, but it is available as an Art Print here
Through the Elephants Eyes Art Print

An Appreciation for the Opossum Totem and Its Meaning

When I do my Animal Totem Art, each painting begins with an intuition. I listen for messages and the wisdom that the animals teach. Each one comes in their own time, better said "when they are supposed to arrive". This is what happened with the Opossum Totem. 

The Many Faces of the Opossum, Contemporary Folk Art by Jeanne Fry

I had never really given much thought to the Opossum. I rarely see them, except for a brief glimpse here and there when the night sky has pulled its shade down. Now that Spring is arriving, I am beginning to see them again. After three days of seeing them, I had this great pull to paint the Opossum and study on his living skills. Everything other "work in progress" in my studio had to be put aside to make way for this new totem to come to the canvas.

In the past I hadn't much affection for the opossum. So many times you see them hissing and a bit aggressive...it never gave me much of a warm and fuzzy feeling. Although now I have to say, with a better understanding of how they live and their symbolism, I have a new appreciation for the wisdom that they can teach.

Opossums have a relatively short life span of two to four years. As the only marsupial  in North America, within their pouch exists 13 nipples for their young. The gestation for the opossum babies is a brief two weeks before they are born. While the litter may be upwards of 20 or so, only 13 will survive, since there are 13 nipples for nourishment. 

The Opossum Medicine teaches one to use "faces" for survival. Sometimes one may need to be aggressive in a situation, other times they may need to be passive. They are a supreme actor, using whatever face may be needed. And of course they are famous for their great act of "playing dead". The skills of changing the persona in any given situation is linked to their survival in the short life that they have. It's a complete using of all of the layers in one's personality while here on this Earth. And when we think about it, isn't that what we all do? Don't we all have to pull up a courage from deep within to face our challenges? I learned to appreciate the strength and diversity in this creature's fragile existence.

Close up view of the Opossum Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

Last night the urge pulled hard to bring him to canvas. I wanted to portray the delicate nature of the opossum, the beauty that it can carry, and the wisdom it possesses. 

In the painting I created the Opossum resting on a tree branch under the shine from the moon. The branches that surround him have a moon glow...each branch having 13 leaves to represent the 13 nipples of nourishment they carry. His paw prints are shown in the moon, representing the wisdom from this nocturnal animal. My hope was to bring a "sweetness" to his persona that others may not always associate with him. The sweetness comes from an understanding of the road he travels.

You can find this original painting for sale in our Etsy Shop here
Opossum Original Painting on Etsy 

An Artists Day Off with Horse Totem Wisdom and a Gourd Farm

Sometimes you just need a day off, a chance to get away from the grind...the appointments...and let your mind relax in a different space. This is especially important for an artist. Those outdoor excursions are often just what is needed for a breath of fresh air and inspiration.

A trip to Ghost Creek Gourd Farm

This morning as the coffee was brewing and the dog was impatiently pacing, waiting for a bit of something different, we decided to take a trip to the gourd farm. We were already in need of some new gourd stock for our art. We always prefer picking our own gourds at the farm rather than ordering them. This gives us a chance to envision a piece of art in its raw state before we even get it home. 

Packing our coffee and tea cups, the dog, dog treats, bottles of water, bins for the gourds, and don't forget the boots since it's been raining at the farm...we started out. 

Halfway there we needed to stop at a little farm along the way to say good morning to the horses, who quickly come running to see you when they recognize an animal lovers heart. After  a quick conversation with them and a few dog kisses, we were back on the road to the multitude of gourds waiting for us.

Stopping to say hello to the horses

Horse Totem Reminder

The visit with the horses was timely Horse Totem wisdom for us, reminding us to explore our freedoms and expand our horizons while traveling on our journey.

I spent the rest of the drive sipping my tea and watching the tree silhouettes zipping by, thinking about....well, thinking about everything. Art, Life, Pain, Healing, Joy, and Directions. All these things filled my mind until after awhile, finally, all I thought of was "right now". Quietly my mind became passive and open, like a big huge field lying in front of the horse who is waiting for the signal to 

"Be Free". 

Soon I heard the gravel crunching under the tires as we slowly turned down the road to the farm. Off to the side you could see the fields filled with the year's promise of gourds that are just waiting to be transformed by loving hands.

Gourd Drying in the Field

Gourds waiting to be brought into the Pole Barns

Ghost Creek Gourd Farm

We made our way into the pole barns where Dickie and Linda have bins upon bins lined up and full of cleaned and dried gourds of every imaginable type. With our big reusable bags and empty bins we began choosing gourds for our art...precious supplies for making our frame drums, gourd rattles, bowls, vessels, jewelry, and figurative sculptures. We were assisted greatly by their dogs especially their beautiful male weimaraner who kisses and plays with you with each step you take. 

With bags and bins full, and inspirations brimming to a new level, we loaded back into the car for the trip home.

Gourd Shopping Done

What was my greatest gift of all from the trip?  

"Optimism"

Have a gorgeous day everyone ! And remember, sometimes you just need to take a day off to recharge your batteries :)

(If you are wanting to visit a Gourd Farm in the Southeast, our recommendation is Ghost Creek Gourd Farm.) You can visit their website here

http://www.ghostcreekgourds.com/

They also sell their gourds from their website.

And to see some of our own creations from Gourds you can visit our website at

http://www.consciousartstudios.com/

Enjoying the Moment Cherry Blossom Tree Symbolism

With paintbrush in my hand, I wanted to express "being present" in the moment. With nature being my biggest inspiration in my art, the Cherry Blossom Tree quickly began to appear on the canvas. 

The Cherry Blossom is loved by many cultures, giving appreciation to it's beautiful delicate blossoms that break into bloom quickly and with great vibrancy. Sadly the blooms do not last long. 

It is a reminder to us to appreciate every moment and live it to it's fullest...to become all that we are meant to be without holding back...and to be aware of the beauty of life that surrounds us.

Cherry Blossom Tree a Contemporary Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

When I have those times of feeling overwhelmed by the "little stuff" that seems like "big stuff" , I think of the cherry blossom and Enjoying the Moment.

Have a most Beautiful, Love Filled, and Magical Day !

The original painting has sold. It is available as an Art Print in our Fine Art America shop here
Cherry Blossom Tree Art Print on Fine Art America

She Listens in the Chasing the Goddess Series

"She Listens" is the third painting in my series "Chasing the Goddess". I will be writing extensively on the deepest meaning of the entire series when I get close to completion, but will give you some brief thoughts now.

She Listens, a Contemporary Folk Art Painting in the Chasing the Goddess series by Jeanne Fry

When I painted the first painting "The Divine Feminine", it came to my attention how so many connected with her, each having a different name for her and how they related. Some felt she was Mother Mary, others felt Mary Magdalene, some Guadalupe, and others likened her to Kuan Yin. To some extent they were all correct. In my heart, I feel that in the bigger picture they are all the same, it is her essence not her name that is the focus. She was the Goddess, the Divine Feminine. She is what we all connect with in the deepest part of us, whether you are a man or a woman. She is the authentic Feminine Energy, that brings a balance to our world, nature, spirituality, and the Universe.

Recently I was asked why the first three all have had their eyes closed. The series is a journey, of discovery and feeling. As it unfolds there will be changes in her as all of her aspects come together. The final painting in the Chasing the Goddess series, will have her eyes open, authentic...the source...the energy...to which we are all connected with.

The Divine Feminine, first in the series of "Chasing the Goddess" by Jeanne Fry

Remember Who You Are, the second in the series of "Chasing the Goddess" by Jeanne Fry

"She Listens" is what we are being asked...to hear the messages we are being sent...to hear our own voice...to hear the voice of the world. She is a bit older in this version, with her hair turning grey. She has a sage wisdom within her from the oldest parts of her soul, where her intuitive self comes with a natural ease and stands in the forefront giving her a confident, pure, and compassionate heart.

She Listens, a Contemporary Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

She Listens by Jeanne Fry

SOLD

Art Prints are available of the Goddesses in my Fine Art America Shop here
http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/jean-fry.html 

Peacock and it's Symbolic Meaning

As many of you know, my art tends to revolve heavily around nature and animal totems. Apparently even when I don't necessarily put my mind to it. The night before I had begun a new painting. My mood was gravitating to a free flowing of paint, abstractness, color, and raw feeling. Layers and textures, acrylics and mineral pigments came to life on the canvas, almost as if in a quiet meditation. Soon, when I stepped back, I saw the eye of a peacock feather, and allowed myself to follow it's direction. Soon there were three peacock feathers, almost standing at attention, greeting you before you could go further. Beyond where they stood was a rich and complex world, to me...the bigger picture. Connecting with the peacock, and a third eye wisdom symbolized in his feather, afforded a higher knowledge of the vast universe. And so...the painting was named "The Gateway to Higher Knowledge".

Abstract Peacock Original Painting by Jeanne Fry

Somehow those animal totems seem to continually slip into my paintings....and I am grateful.

If you would like to see more of the painting it is listed for sale in our Etsy shop here
Peacock Feathers Original Painting for Sale on Etsy

It is also available as an Art Print is several sizes, as a Canvas or Metal Print, or a greeting card on Fine Art America here
Three Peacock Feathers on Fine Art America

Nubian Goat Totem Symbolism

The Nubian Goat is rich in symbolism.Goats were one one of the earliest domesticated animals because of their many attributes, sought for their milk, meat, and hide.Their milk has a higher butterfat content and is generally easily digested by humans. Their hides are used for leathers in crafting everything from rugs to clothing to bags.
They represent abundance and fertility to us, a continual sustenance to satisfy our needs.

Goat and Sunflower, a contemporary folk art painting by Jeanne Fry

Goats are strong and easily adapt to varying terrain. They are excellent climbers and carry a surety in their step. Before goats were bred and domesticated, they tended to live in mountainous regions. They can adapt to their surroundings and do so with a careful and thoughtful step, showing us that when life gives us challenges to proceed with an awareness and courage.
Their climbing ability to the tops of the geographical peaks was representative of being able to see the "big picture" and attaining a stronger connection to that which is larger than us.One could say that the goat is symbolic of balance and perspective.

Thank you for visiting my blog. You are welcome to explore my other blog posts here, many which focus on animal totem symbolism.
(This painting has been sold)

Our Roots Go Deep and Tree Symbolism

Once again I find my spirit being drawn back to the tree who's symbolism is so powerful in my life. I have written and painted many versions of trees, their silhouettes, and the Tree of Life, each time I suppose to recreate my connection with them. In doing so I am reaffirming my honor for what they mean to me. On an immediate level they speak to me of Longevity, their strength in years, their presence on this Earth. Because of their symbolism of Time, it makes me pause and think of their presence through change, watching their environment evolve around them continually yet they continue on their path, every growing and striving for the skies. On a human level I guess it makes me yearn for that ability to diligently stay on my own course through the plethora of bright and stormy days, untouched by the actions of others or the terms of life.

Our Roots Go Deep Folk Art Painting by Jeanne Fry

Lastly, their symbolism for History inspires me. All that they have seen and endured, making them the beings they are today.

The quote by Kim Novak comes to mind..."Just touching that old tree was truly moving to me because when you touch these trees, you have such a sense of the passage of time, of history. It's like you're touching the essence, the very substance of life."

Tree Symbolism Painting by Jeanne Fry

Thank you for once again allowing me to share how important the Tree and it's symbolism are to me.

If you are interested in this painting you can find it here in my Etsy shop:
Our Roots Go Deep Original Painting on Etsy