Denizens of the Underworld Series - "The Gatekeeper"

"The Denizens of the Underworld" is a series of artworks that I'll be releasing primarily through 2025. It contains symbolism of transformation and growth through hard times. I may be personally inspired, but these feelings are universal. As I create new pieces and themes for this collection, I will add sections about them to this post. Next year, I'm hoping to focus on collections that represent peace and abundance, but for now, despite struggles, I am finding great joy, inspiration and meaning in this stage of life. Finding ourselves in the Underworld isn't "bad," as it is necessary and a blessing in disguise. It clears the way for true alignment. It's scary though, as we face mystery, loss, challenges, change, and complex emotions. I have never felt more connected to my art than working on these inspired works, and I hope they help others feel seen and met where they are too.

"The Gatekeeper"

Toads, humble and unassuming, represent a transition from water to earth, and remaining resilient through life's cycles. They are at home in the shadowy depths of the natural world. From its tadpole beginnings, to its eventual emergence onto the land, the toad embodies seamless transitioning from the emotional turbulence of Water, to the stability of Earth. It grants reassurance that you will achieve stability in the wake of many emotions. The toad is a reminder of our ever-present potential for change. In winter, some toads freeze solid, and when their habitat thaws again, they miraculously revive. 

We say “I can’t,” so often in life, and there's times we need to. But, sometimes, we say it from a place of being lost in a fixed view of ourselves. It's inevitable that nearly everyone will be surprised to meet the person they become; learning a skill they didn't know they'd ever have, or moving somewhere they never knew they'd love. Anyone can transform and be reborn, no matter how far down any one path we think we are. Let the toad be your guide, when times are hard, and when you feel you've had enough with somewhere, something, or how someone makes you feel. Sometimes our environment changes. Sometimes we change ourselves to seek a new one. Whatever the case may be, the Toad is going to be okay, and so will you.

"The Portal"

Many view the eclipse as a signifier of changing phases. I view it like a portal. Knowingly or unknowingly, we cross a threshold, bringing the end of one chapter, and the beginning of another. As we enter the underworld, the tests come swiftly. What no longer serves purpose in our lives slips away. Whether it's taken forcibly or we experience a sudden awakening and personal shift, we are spirited on to a new path.The power of the Portal and the Toad convergently represent manifestation at our lowest point. This is the moment we bounce, from our hardest places, and ascend again, remade. Click here to find designs in my shop featuring this artwork: