Description:
The Morrigan, ancient goddess of the land, of fertility and death, became associated in more modern times with war. In triple aspect she was accompanied by Nemain (Frenzy), Macha or Badbh (Battle Crow). In her war aspect she appeared over the battlefield, inciting the warriors to become crazy with war-lust, and thus, causing their own demise. The Morrigan was not death herself, she was the harbinger of death, and so the Ban-Shee or the Washer at the Ford, became associated with her. She is the Kali of the Irish pantheon, the Dark Mother to whom we must respect deeply.
The Morrigan, represents the dark aspect that we all experience and possess. Everything emerges from the dark, the child from the womb, the day from night, and The Morrigan's power exists within this place of potentiality. We also end the cycle by returning to the dark, day gives way to night, our bodies return to the earth, and so The Morrigan blesses us by releasing us from her realm and calls us back when it is time.
The dark aspect is not something to be feared, for to fear the dark, is to be afraid of our own nature. It is to be understood as part of a natural cycle of rise and fall, expanding and contracting, reaching out and turning inward, etc. The Morrigan offers us a way to understand and navigate the dark paths throughout our life, if only we overcome our fears and reach out to accept the "fruit" of knowledge she offers us.
All artwork and text - Copyright 2005-2010 DoAn Art (Antony Galbraith) unless indicated otherwise. All Rights Reserved. Any downloading, copying or use of images on this website is strictly prohibited without express written consent by Antony Galbraith.
Comments
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Helena Nelson-Reed
Woodridge, IL - United States
I like the way you are working with the goddess and mythical archetypes in your life and paintings. Each painting, and the words you write to accompany it, is meaningful and informative.
Antony Galbraith replied:
Thanks Helena! I am continuing to to work with the themes and archetypes that this painting addresses, both in art and in writing. I hope to bring them together in another form sometime down the line. Until then, I am happy that others enjoy the exploration that I am doing with these mythic themes.
Maria tereza Braz
Carnaxide, po - Portugal
...fantastico!!!!!!
Antony Galbraith replied:
Thank you Maria! I appreciate your feedback!
Martyn Fox
Lismore, NS - Australia
I love your work DoAn and particularly this piece. Reminds me of Dali's work. I'm just exploring my unconscious mind using meditation processes, and mythology is also becoming an important part of my practice, so it is encouraging to find a fellow traveler! Can you explain a bit more about the meditation process and your materials? Will love to see more as you progress. Cheers, Martyn Fox.
Antony Galbraith replied:
Thanks Martyn! Dali, wow! Perhaps it is that surreal, inner world quality that you are connecting to. I like to use water media, particularly ink and watercolors. I find that they are the most receptive to intuitive painting, while still satisfying my interest in technique.
Meg Zivahl-Fox
Thousand Oaks, CA - United States
The weaving of these individual elements creates such a dynamic spirit, and there is such strength in her expression. Wonderful work, DoAn! I love looking through your galleries.
Antony Galbraith replied:
Thanks Meg. This was a challenging painting. Entering the dark, facing what lies in wait for you there can be off putting. I had to put this piece down and work on other things at times, while I let myself go deeper and deeper into the dark. It was a totally different experience than sinking into depression or despair. This was invigorating and required lots of stamina.
Niina Niskanen
Kempele - Finland
This one caught my attention immediately. I adore all the details and it is amazing how much feeling it awakes. Beautiful painting, powerfull goddess.
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