When it comes to art throughout history, many pieces have been dedicated to the gods and spirits. From cave walls and pottery to temples of dedication, which brings architectural art into being. When it comes to the modern interpretation of art found within our communities it is ever-expanding upon the history of art and devotion. But how does one start the process of devotion to these energies thru art? What is it that makes it different then just a normal piece of art found on a gallery's wall? When these questions come to mind I tend to follow the thought process as I feel the answer changes with time. For some, it may start as a way of representation where none was currently presented. While for others it may be something that these energies manifested within our minds. As time goes on these ideas get expanded upon and with each new piece some personal perspective comes to mind. Depending on the form in which we create will bring about new things. How control of the stroke of a brush may differ from that of a sculpting tool, each unique and yet similar. Each one takes upon its own form to blend and bend and mold to become something meaningful.
In my spiritual path, I have had many creative endeavors some brought upon by influential energies around me. While others were divine inspirations of blended techniques each one bringing life to something new. As many know my ADHD has a huge impact on my art and my perception and techniques. Sometimes the things I receive are beyond my personal realm of comprehensible abilities. This brings me to explore the talents of those around me taking what was given to make it into being.
As you can see from the left of me art is not just in what we create. But sometimes we become the living embodiment of the art itself. The image you see is from a dream I was blessed with. But unfortunately, I lacked the skill to make it a reality. Thankfully for me, I knew of a local Ohio artist to help me. Dustin has helped bring forth the things I have envisioned over the years. Which I thank the gods for his talent and willingness to create such things for me. Which allows me to carry my devotional art with me.
This creation that came to me was during what some may call a dream. Yet for me, it was more of a traveling experience. Somewhere in a place where this reality and the next one meets. I entered the tavern to traveling souls. Upon this location I found myself being led as if I was already expected. As I passed down a hall with rooms lined to my left. I noticed people being modified in different ways. Who they were or to whom they dedicated themselves to is unbeknownst to me. As I entered thru an oak door, I found myself in what seemed like a library. The only reason I say this is because of the books that were being displayed upon bookshelves both high and low. To the left upon entry were a fireplace and some furniture. But where I was heading was to a chair in front of a tremendously big window. The chair itself reminded me of a mixture between a barber chair and a phlebotomy chair. As one of the arms had a resting spot to which your arm would lay upon it. In front of the chair was a round small table that held all the materials one would need to do a sak yant style method. As I took a seat the individual placing this tattoo upon me was firm and unwavering in their approach. Each blow he took felt like a wave of pain. This process felt like days when in our reality it was mere hours. When I had awakened from my state I remember waking up to the feeling of it left behind. For days I kept looking at my arm and knowing what I saw and felt was something more. It was a few days upon pondering on this and not being able to shake it did I reach out and ask for a helping hand. The method was not the same yet the intention and the pain from it was similar to the one I experienced. I share this as a way to show that not all things we create come from this reality of existence. Sometimes it is the hands that guide that lead the way to creation. Now that I have shared this with you let's dive into the parts of devotional creation. There have been a few other instances in which I've acquired the helping hands of Dustin, These are featured down below.
From concept to material
This type of question comes from two places, one being that of self and the other being of that which you are guided to. I've had many things over the years I have created from what I knew how to do. While in some instances I have been guided with the material they want me to use, versus the one on hand I have, this is why I say there are two ways to see this. But generally, the rule of thumb is the concept of what you wish to create. For example, if you are wanting to make a piece dedicated to a god such as Dionysus. One may look for organic materials such as grape vines to weave together an offering plate. Using the seed found in an orchard to decorate with, creating a splendid piece upon which to serve votive offerings upon. Another example of this could be using iron to forge a key for Hekate. The options are limitless when it comes to creating your piece of art.
Does my art have to be a ritualistic item?
Many when starting devotional art will focus more on items they can use such has a wand or figures. But the longer you go on your art devotional journey there are only so many of these items you can create. If we think about the art we have found in devotion to the gods it takes many forms than ritualistic items. Such as but not limited to the following down below.
Protection Pieces-These are pieces forged in the energy of the spirit you are working with to offer forms of protection.
Visual Pieces-These are pieces in which are meant to be a visual representation of the spirits or the energies in which they control.
Burnable pieces- Such pieces like this need to be made of materials that are not toxic, so keep this in mind when creating such pieces.
Weaving/Stitch
When it comes to creating items for devotion, some of the simplest forms can be the art of stitch and weaving. When it comes to weaving in particular it can be done with a variety of methods that place an intention into the piece you are making. It becomes something that isn't an obvious display of devotion. But the maker behind it has infused the intention of the devotion of certain energies within it. For example, a blanket can be used to infuse the energy of Hestia, which provides warmth and comfort. Which can be taken anywhere you go and provide the comfort you need without the attention you may not want. Items can be made to gift infusing these features within giving those we love a sense of the god's divine protection within them. May of the Appalachian quilters I grew up around would infuse herbs in with cotton adding an extra added effect to the pieces they created. For some, it's about how one stitches a piece together going from the number of rows to the pattern of the lines to make them. Becoming a force of symbolism giving power to each part of its creation. One of the things that I found amazing was the thought of prayer cloths. Sometimes it was a simple piece of fabric while other times it was a few stitched together. In times of crisis or illness, it was common to see these being brought our by an elder family member and used during a prayer for them. To me, this is something I still do from time to time as it connects me to those I've lost. Along with I personally have felt how powerful of a tool this can be.
Sculpting
When it comes to sculpting things, my journey started years ago with polymer clay for a shop I had. But in my spiritual practice, it is something that I just recently started to feel called to use in my spiritual path. For years I heard people talk about how the clay shows what it will be and had no understanding of what that meant. Yet as I started the process of making a devotional piece for Hades recently. I found this statement to be true, as this was the first time i was actively sculpting a face. When it came to the painting process of it, this is still something I need to work on, but the intention behind the piece connects with me deeply.
Conclusion
When starting any journey of devotional art one must remember it comes from your heart. Many pieces are created in this world today based upon the aspect the gods reflect upon us. Sometimes the things that come to light for us are not the same reflection for others. When creating a piece of energy, focus on the intent. Sometimes this may come thru by the stroke of your hand. To the hymn that enters your mind as you create these pieces. Art in itself comes in various forms and each piece we find has a story to share with those around us. Some may not understand your work, but once again art is subjective to the individual. In the end it's about the energy in which you wish to portray. As time goes on your pieces of the past will seem like mere art projects to the future development of your skill. If history has shown us anything art has many forms. Some are not listed here just yet, as each deserves its own space. So no matter how your art comes forth either by the hands in which you weave or the talents of a local artist. Remember the energy you have been given to create and the energy you give unto others that inspires their creations.
The Devine Witch
Debbie Lewis
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