Mixed Media on Canvas: Acrylic, Fish Net, Tissue Paper and Recycled Bigelow Tea Bags. 24″ x 36″ (60.9 cm x 91.5 cm)
The Guardian is a protector. She represents humanity’s desire and need for external safety and defense. Throughout history, we have constructed and used images, symbols and objects to abate our fears. We have the extraordinary ability to find peace and sanctuary in the smallest of trinkets – the cross around one’s neck, or the evil eye in one’s house. Whether our protector takes the form of a trinket, family member (parent, spouse, etc…), or a supernatural being (God, guardian angel, spirit), it (she, he) armors us. Strengthened and empowered by our real, or imagined armor, we often wield it as weaponry.
Does this longing to be protected by something outside ourselves suggest our innate weakness, our fearful disposition? I reckon that this longing stems from our fear of being alone. If we are alone in body, we can seek comfort in the spiritual realm. If we are alone in spirit, we can seek comfort in the material world. If we are alone in both spirit and body, we have the difficult task of relying on our person for our sole source of comfort. Perhaps, it is easier and far more appealing to solicit the assistance of the external.
The Guardian is my imagined protector. Inspired by the ancient Egyptian god Horus—often depicted as a falcon-headed man—The Guardian can hunt to kill, fight to defend and stand to shield any physical, or metaphysical ill-willed being. There is nothing shy, feeble, or hesitant about her demeanor. Though she is neither bloodthirsty, nor cruel, she can and will unmercifully protect her ward.
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