Description of work:
Turtle is the oldest symbol for the Earth. Native Americans associated Turtle with the lunar cycle and the power of the female energies.
In Greek mythology, Hermes created the first lyre by stretching strings across a sea turtle's shell.
In Asian mythology, the turtle represents cosmic order: Its shell signifies the heavens, its body stands for the earth, and its under-shell symbolizes the underworld.
Some ancient cultures believed that the turtle created the universe from its parts. Some think that by reading a turtle's shell and underbelly, they can predict the future.
Turtle medicine teaches new perceptions about time and our relationship to it. Turtle totems hold the mystery of awakening the senses on physical and spiritual levels. When Turtle shows up in our lives, it is most likely a reminder to pay attention or we will miss opportunities.
I am painting Turtle to celebrate the wisdom and patience of an ancient creature fighting for survival in a modern world. |