Step by step, the stars shall guide,
Through dark nights and barren land wide.
Where eyes like lanterns gently glow,
And secret paths beyond the known go.
The wind will weave a whispered tune,
Of dreams that dance beneath the moon.
No fear shall hold the wanderer’s name,
For all who seek are kin the same.
So take the path where none have been,
Past hills and stones, through veil and green,
For those who walk with open heart
Shall find where wonder’s journeys start.
Fly far, fly free, and do not fear nor grieve,
The spirits sing to those who bravely leave.
And when the stars are all you see,
Know this: they remember thee.
Creating this artwork was such a wonderful journey – that began midst temples and shrines in Japan. Well, probably even long before that. Many hours – days, weeks – went into this work, which was partially comfort zone, partially challenge. Though a challenge I thoroughly enjoyed.
As always, quite a lot of symbolism went into this artwork and it also contains a few familiar faces, for a journey is more fun together. There is Nouri, which was also present in “Permission“. Then there is Athar, a very central figure in my head-world and the many stories I wrote. And, of course, there is Arka – the humanoid (Fae) shape of Farphyni (the personification of my creativity and art). So, obviously this work is quite personal. There is a lot of change happening and a big step is awaiting me in the next months, a new chapter of my life. So, in some (metaphorical) way, I’m also approaching a portal, like Arka is in this artwork – as it is in the nature of a Feyrin like her.
How scary, how exciting. Another adventure. For there is a lot of world to see, isn’t there?
Circling back to symbols. There are some re-occuring once I like to use, that you probably notice when looking through my art. Some, I will share with you. We have some butterflies here again, a symbol of emotions, thoughts and intentions – their number a hint towards the major arcana. Stars and planets – endless possibilities, so many places to visit – with their shape and color giving a hint on who/what occupies them.
What will the future bring? We’ll only find out, if we walk through the portal. Right? But it is surrounded by three kind of deities, which guard the portal – and wanderers have to face them beforehand. A kind of trial, you could say, to see if you’re ready for what lays ahead. Will you face them with curiosity or fear? You might recognize the blue-purple creature with the guiding-light on the right side – it’s the nightserpent-shape of Gawyn’derethéa, who was featured in “Resilience” a few years ago. Then there is she-who-once-was Raijin (who was shown in “Mind of a Beast“) an eternity ago, who became an immortal beast with a new destiny and a new name: Koa’riath. And then there is the third one – which trial will wanderers have to face with him? We will see…
As always, with big artworks, I’ll also show you some detail views:
