Saturday, July 17, 2010

Metamorphosis

Many years ago, I remember discussing the concept of Heaven with an elderly priest. I remember him saying that it didn't really matter how we envisioned it, because it would be a completely different state of being; that trying to explain it would be like trying to tell a caterpillar what it will be like to become a butterfly. He said his own image of heaven was being able to sit down to a cup of tea with the Blessed Mother. For him, that was the ultimate image of peace and contentment.

Having long ago abandoned the concept of a kingdom in the clouds somewhere, I hang onto that old priest's description; the metamorphosis from lowly caterpillar to beautiful butterfly, transitioning from one life to another. Becoming something more beautiful, taking flight.

Butterflies have long been a symbol of the soul and of transition, a totem if you will, reminding us to embrace the changes in our lives and trust that we'll emerge alright. Not a bad lesson, and one particularly close to home as we learn to roll with our own changes and challenges here.

So I suppose it's no surprise I've had butterflies on my mind this week, and have incorporated some of their symbolism into the latest piece, a one of a kind keepsake box...

It was such a blessing to paint this piece, and I hope it brings a little peace and contentment (and maybe a little butterfly magic) to it's new home.

It's listed on eBay now, along with this one - another treasure box, inspired by the notion of cats wishing on a star - or in this case the constellation "Catsseopeia". :)

I like to think they're wishing for a warm hearth, a full tummy, and a forever home, which of course, every cat deserves. :)

That's about it for tonight. Or I suppose I should say this morning (I turned into a pumpkin about an hour ago!) I hope you enjoyed a peek at the latest goodies.

I'll be back very soon with more works (Halloween!) in progress. Until then, have a happy and creative week!!

♥ Carolee

7 comments:

Maria-Thérèse ~ www.afiori.com said...

It is beautiful!!

William Bezek said...

That was so nicely said Carolee, I have never bought into that drivel about a McMansion in the sky for everone in a perfect, self righteous suburbia...kind of sounds like hell to me.

Kai said...

You are AMAZING, Carolee! I can barely WAIT each day to check your blog & see what new 'wonderfulness' you've created! LOVE THIS BOX!

Creepie Cuties said...

This is so beautiful. I can't wait to see your art in person on Oct. 2nd :D

Unknown said...

Lovely post Carolee! :-)

Brian said...

Hi! I found you through Leila's blog! I just wanted to stop by and say you have a great blog and your stuff is amazing! Leila has never failed me yet with pointing me in the right direction of awesome artists!

Take care

Oonagh @ CeltoiCroi Studio said...

enjoyed this post very much Carolee, probably because of my love of butterflies/mythical fairies. Your artwork for the butterflies, the moon and the hare chests is truly inspirational...thank you for sharing,
i will be back to be inspired again,
dia duit,
Oonagh B. McCann @ CeltoiCroi