EXHIBITION GALLERY
Serene Flutter
The movement represented through this first piece is an introduction to the path of enlightenment, which, simply put, means to harness our desires through logic and reason, reminding ourselves that nature is our aid and guide when wanting to detach from everyday stressors. The brevity of a firefly’s life is what this fossilized marking represents. The glow of the firefly is a reflection of our inner potential. Cultivating positive mental qualities and abandoning disturbing thoughts should be a daily constant practice. There is no right or wrong way to find this equilibrium. We must remind ourselves to always be vigilant and receptive to those channels of light that work for others and cook up our own recipe of funky ritualistic zen. Have fun with your way.
Hermes
We are all divine messengers, this is what Greek philosophy teaches us. Hermes was a guide of souls described as witty and cunning. These entities are described as Godly because they are a reminder of that reachable divine point we all strive to be at, a point where we can give back to our community and those we love because we have paid our dues and overcome trauma. The wings are a reminder that we constantly are able to switch from one state of mind to the other. Being able to control this flux is mastery. We can all strive to be masters of any task or specialized craft. Divine strength is reaching focus and the drive that gets us there is the adaptability of being able to re-write the map to get there, no matter what obstacles show up along the way.
Seers
The spirit of a surfer is materialized in this representation of the fossilized marking to the left. Surfers believe that there is always a wave to be ridden. Challenges are what keep our energy flowing and our vibration high. This way of thinking can be applied to any circumstance. Imagining a sense of calmness and clarity that comes from being in and out of the water or any nature-related activity. Connecting with nature and the elements is the most powerful source of rejuvenation, allowing us to recharge. Exercise increases blood flow, promoting oxygen and nutrient delivery to the skin, making us look younger. Every structure of belief is a complex web of moral, psychological, and spiritual substance particular to each culture. To be a seer means to be lucid and prophetic, to comprehend that intrinsic motivation comes from an internal desire to accomplish a goal. External rewards and praise are no match to a sense of inner fulfillment. Growth, Happiness, Love, Learning, Recognition, Wealth, Respect and Balance are all examples of inner fulfillment.
Water Angel
This winged messenger appearing on the wooden gateway of this healing space seems to have a flame above her head. Acting on Chinese Taoist thought, by placing an estuary at her feet we are reminded that through mixing of the waters, the environment is transformed. Flexibility, Intuition, Empathy and Insight is like the softness and enduring force of water, it molds and transforms. Water is believed to be the medium through which heaven communicates its judgement upon earth. Throwing water, or rituals such as baptism, symbolize the cleansing of the soul and or blessings to come. No matter what flame we may be carrying over our heads ancestrally, there are always ways in which we can transform and mold ourselves into someone better. Being more flexible and by fulfilling our own potential, we become accepting of others and pay it forward.
Flames of Grace
The flame that ignites our willpower allows us to be proactive. Having a graceful presence means that you have reached a level of understanding in which you can relate to others without judgement. God’s grace is said to be an undeserved favor. Grace cannot be earned; it is something that is freely given. The goodness of our heart is measured by others through eye contact, tact and tone of voice. We should all have the fire that drives us to reach any proposed goal we may set for ourselves, but to step outside of that focus and serve as mentors to others is grace. This piece reminds us to balance both.
Code Red
According to Classical Chinese Medicine and the five-elemental theory, the emotional and behavioral tendencies linked to wood are action, movement and adventure. These personality types are excellent planners and their minds are always on the go. This piece is a reminder that if you are hard-driven and work with passionate and pure intentions, you will thrive. We should always strive towards growth and setting small goals to get us there, no matter how long it takes. The element that controls wood is metal. An axe, for example, could help us build a pool table. Thinking about the interconnectivity of the elements is a way for us to visualize end results. The magic of this constant flow brings us comfort, because we are one with nature and those we love and admire. Seeking adventure in nature is medicine that helps our psyche heal.
Meditation
A reminder that at times we must clear our heads from all that is external. These abstract fossilized markings emanate a warm energy that soothes. We could frequently enter abstract thoughts in order to sooth ourselves. We city dwellers should consider selecting natural or nature-inspired patterned pieces to decorate and have around. The feeling I got was that of surrender. Surrendering to sleep is important for our reactionary reflexes, when we are aware and need to multi-task. I countered the feeling with the passionate reds for a contrasting effect.
Braveheart
To voluntarily suffer death rather than deny religion by words or deeds is considered to be martyrdom. This fossilized marking reminded me of Jesus on the cross. Exceptional leadership and heroism in the face of difficult circumstances is what has gotten you to where you are today. I flipped this marking around and made it into a sword of sorts. Consider yourself a warrior. You have overcome every test, and/or person who has tried to harm you or pull you back. Each of us has a particular higher cause or victory that we visualize and pursue. There is value in all of them, as long as they do no harm to others and are meant to target your personal pursuit of balance and well-being. At the end of the day it is only you in your bed dreaming or cooking up a new one to conquer. We sacrifice pleasures in order to focus on our personal goals, not everyone has the ability to teach or pursue systems that will benefit the greater good. Waisting time judging others at this point only pulls you back from your purpose. Imposing yourself on others and their beliefs lowers your own frequency and stamina. Remind yourself that the battle is internal.
Serenity Order
To be serene means to not have stress or anxiety. When we finally are able to reach a state of peace of mind and quietness. The transformation of the arched amoeba-like being suspended in blue space, reminds us of a bird-like thought. As soon as our mind wanders off in the wrong direction, we must harness it in order to get it back on course. Accept that there are things that you can and cannot change. Be aware that what we eat or drink affects our minds and can make us irritable or anxious. Your home is a sacred space and should be a refuge for both your mind and your senses, uncluttered and serene. Self preservation means not allowing people into your space who bring chaos. Make your life better by not submitting to or indulging the drama of others and acknowledge everything good that happens to you.
Hidden Feather
Paravani was the Peacock ridden by the Hindu God Of War. According to them, the peacock is considered a sacred animal. It was also considered to be a sacred bird to the Greek Godess Hera, queen of the gods, wife to Zeus, and the patroness of women, marriage, and childbirth. Many of them roam around El Portal and give us cues of support and well-being. It is said that when you keep a peacock feather in your home, it protects you from evil energies. It is a powerful symbol of vitality, renewal, and rebirth. This fossilized marking reminded me of the center of a peacock feather and an arched amoeba-like being or a tadpole. When a person is considered to be arched, we mean that they are playful and ironic in a teacherly way.
Hearts Eye
The heart is the source of heat within our bodies. Considered to be the center of our souls, it is the root of our emotional output. We observers are all students of human customs and wisdom. True visionaries are commited to the idea of compassion, empathy and universal love. Reaching our own formula of philosophy is the deepest form of self love. This fossilized marking is the eye of intention, always vigilant of what goes in and out of this space. A symbol of how we need to be vigilant of our intentions with ourselves and others. An all seeing eye awakens within us when we can sense the purity of thought within others. It is our maternal and paternal cues and insights as well as the clarity to see and indulge the inner child we all should care for. To strive to be playful and light and at the same time bounce back to responsibility and service. If the heat of other’s intentions burn you out, vocalize it, ask for help,
educate yourself, do anything in your power to extract yourself from their realm of rigidity. We all have the power within.
