Monsters & Butterflies
I also love the illustrations found in medieval bestiaries, collections of creatures both real and imagined. These bestiaries originated in the ancient world and were made popular in the Middle Ages in illustrated volumes that described various animals, birds and other creatures of nature. The natural history and illustration of each beast was usually accompanied by a moral lesson.
Over the years both these loves have inspired a series of canvases I called "Monsters & Butterflies". On some of these canvases I've built up an imaginary world map where you never know what you'll encounter, friend or foe! They hold a message about the nature and mystery of life something that can be incredibly difficult to navigate at times.
Sometimes we're called to make leaps of faith and put new maps together. We need to travel new terrain that is completely unknown to us and which presents new challenges and new "monsters".
Despite all that life can and does also present us with wonders. Around those unknown corners we can also encounter "butterflies" in many forms. Butterflies of inspiration, of happiness and newness and butterflies that show us that life is to be lived regardless of the possibility of monsters.
After all it's from the light/shade, ups/downs, fun/sadness and contrasts of all kinds that we are shaped and become all the more richer and wiser. I must say I've encountered my fair share of contrast and at times have thought it would be easier to give up but I also know the person I've become is because of these shaping moments and I wouldn't have it any other way.
To me there's no other way to live than in full colour, experiencing all life has to offer - the ups and downs and everything in between. When it boils down to it at least I know I'm alive and making this life count.
Life is meant to be so much more than the mundane and so much more fun when we turn the everyday into a story!
Sharon L Baker is an Intuitive Reader, Mixed Media Artist and Creativity & Wellness Coach living in the Hawkesbury Valley, NSW, Australia. For enquiries and bookings email: hellosharonlbaker@gmail.com
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