Original artwork description:

The myth of Persephone is a profound tale from ancient Greek mythology that explores themes of life, death, and rebirth. Persephone, the daughter of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, embodies the cycle of the seasons. Her story begins when Hades, the god of the Underworld, abducts her to be his queen. This act plunges the world into despair, as Demeter, distraught over the loss of her daughter, neglects the earth and causes all growth to cease. This period of barrenness symbolizes winter, reflecting the absence of life and vitality.

The turning point in the myth occurs when Persephone is allowed to return to the surface world for part of the year. This return is negotiated between Demeter and Hades, resulting in Persephone spending six months in the Underworld and six months above ground. Her ascent marks the arrival of spring, a time of renewal and fertility. During these months, Demeter rejoices, and the earth flourishes with blooms and crops, representing the joy of reunion and the resurgence of life.

Persephone's dual role as both the queen of the Underworld and a symbol of spring illustrates the interconnectedness of life and death. While she reigns over the realm of the dead, her presence also heralds the cyclical nature of existence, emphasizing that death is not the end but rather a part of a greater cycle. The myth serves as a reminder of the balance between light and dark, growth and decay, and the inevitable changes that define the human experience. Through her journey, Persephone embodies the resilience of life and the enduring power of hope.

In my painting Persephone carries the world with her, rising from the barren world of winter and the underworld into a new era of hope.

Materials used:

Oil on gallery wrap canvas

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