#08 Guardian of Mystery 2006

CONCEPTION:

I had one of my frequent painful sinus infections while leading a teacher training in Santa Fe, New Mexico. I thought, “Why not paint the infection as an effort to heal it.” That would also be a good example for my trainees. Sensing it needed to be a large painting, I taped four pieces of paper together before I began to paint and proceeded to paint a large eerie-looking white skull with many holes in its facial bones oozing a yellow green discharge. I knew I must allow this painting to take over my body, and fully express its sounds and movements with the group witnessing this transformation. It was strangely cathartic to go through the tormented movements and sounds. One of my students asked me, as the tortured skull, what was the origin of these lifelong painful sinus infections. I don’t remember the exact words of my reply, but I do remember being surprised and tearful. The origin related to parental abuse, perhaps “ triangulation,” torturing my mind.

The next morning in a trance-like state I was compelled to paint over the skull with this black being, like a magical troll in a sea of red. It was electric. I knew that although he looked menacing, he was really a firm guardian whose genitals were connected to his heart. The sinus infections never returned.

ATTRIBUTES:

Protection, wisdom, shape shifter between the upper and lower worlds with ease, balance between power and vulnerability.

Description of Paper Types:

Economy Poster: 90# heavy poster quality paper; our most economical option.
Matte Fine Art: Photo Rag (Matte Cotton): This is a beautiful 100% cotton smooth fine art paper… archival and acid-free; (Giclée)