Mother of Serpents
1992
by Eric Whollem
pumice from Mt. Shasta on white clay with copper
Collection of Michael Stratton
10"
Photo copyright by the artist.
The Metaphysical Symbolism of the Serpent
In the lore of the Goddess the serpent is very sacred. In ancient
times water snakes were released when people were looking for
a site to establish a temple. When the snake found a spring, that
site was chosen for the temple. Temples were established for
healing and dreaming. Temples used to be the hospitals of the
ancient world.
Red Snake Goddess
1995
by Eric Whollem
red iron oxide in
acrylic emulsion with Vibhuti
on white earthenware clay
Private collection
5.5" x 4"
PHOTO COPYRIGHT BY THE ARTIST
CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE
The healing gods Aesculapius and Hygeia were both associated
with the serpent. The two serpents entwined on a staff are today
still a symbol of the medical profession.
Marija Gimbutas said that the coiled serpent was a water symbol.
Water is often considered a primary attribute of the Goddess
insofar as water is powerful, yet soft and malleable. Water also
is a symbol of emotions and feeling.
The White Goddess
1995
by Eric Whollem
white granite earth pigment on
white earthenware clay
Private collection
5" x 4"
PHOTO COPYRIGHT BY THE ARTIST
CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE
Moses raised a brazen serpent in the wilderness to guide the
Israelites in their wanderings. In the New Testament it is said:
"Be wise as serpents, but harmless as doves."
In India, the serpent energy is called Kundalini Yoga, a basic
practice for illumination.
A sculpture video by Eric Whollem, 2011
THIS VIDEO PRESENTS A VARIETY OF MY
CERAMIC GODDESS SCULPTURES IN THE
FORMAT OF FAUX POSTAGE STAMPS
____________
Readers interested in my Ceramic Sculpture may want to see these posts:
This sheet of Poster Stamps shows the variety of sculptures
that I have created; the multicolored pieces
best reflect the use of my
earth paints.
My posts on the topic of the Goddess can be found here:
My articles that deal with Earth Paints can be found on these posts:
If attracted to the lore of Mt. Shasta you can find what I have to say here:
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