Myths, Legends and Chimeras Series

Zebra-headed woman in red

Oil on canvas 30 x 40cm (2024)

The Surrealists were often inspired to create Chimeras,  mythical or fictional animals made up of many parts. The Zebra-headed woman in red is mine.

The lesser-known, second-cousin twice-removed female version of the centaur is significant for her ability to transform her animal nature. Her predilection  for bathing outdoors in an alchemical balneum does of course help.

INFLUENCES

Leonora Carrington’s oil painting of The Bath of Rabbi Loewe. 1969.

GOLDEN APPLES

Oil on canvas 70 x 90cm (2024)

Apples play pivotal roles in many myths, legends and fairytales. They can be the cause of much discord and strife and the downfall of many a fair maid. They can also offer eternal youth and immortality. Golden apples are particularly sought after. They can be found on magical boughs on the Isle of Avalon or the Hesperides and are usually guarded by mythical beasts.

Eris, goddess of dissent was not invited to the marriage of Peleus and Thetis. Annoyed, she turned up anyway and threw a golden apple into the room. The apple was inscribed with the motto “to the fairest one”.  Hera, Athene and Aphrodite vied for the apple and the title. The decision was given to Paris to judge. Bribed by Aphrodite with the offer of Helen of Troy, the most beautiful woman in the world, Paris understandably chose Aphrodite. This choice started the Trojan war since Helen was already married to Menelaus of Sparta. This choice is the inspiration behind the Lovers tarot card.

Death and the Maiden

Oil on board 61 x 43cm (2023)

Persephone was abducted by Pluto and taken down to the underworld. Her mother Ceres mourned the loss of her daughter so much that nothing grew on earth. In desperation the gods spoke to Pluto to ask for her return.

However, Persephone had eaten six pomegranate seeds whilst in the underworld so it was agreed that she would spend six months of the year with Pluto and six with her mother Ceres.