Eternal Embrace

Surrender to the Unknown

When I surrender to sleep, something quietly claims my soul and whispers gently that my eternal passage, a journey beyond the physical realm, is open. This veil of consciousness lifts and the quiet sanctuary of my mind begins to stir relentlessly, opening to an ethereal realm where dreams blend with reality and the darkest of the unknown. In these fleeting moments, the air hums with unseen energy, this delicate vibration that stirs along the edges of my awareness. When these translucent souls arrive, shimmering in sapphire blues and emerald greens, their light weaving through the cracks of darkness, assuring that all is well as I traverse my infinity and beyond.

Celestial Companions

These souls, keepers of my soul, are not strangers but companions on this ethereal journey. They are not just entities that I encounter but integral parts of my spiritual journey. Their arrival is a whisper, a gentle stroke caressing my slumber’s fragile thoughts with ease. With every radiant pulse, they infuse the shadows with a profound energy that seems otherworldly and familiar. They draw close, their glow brushing against the corners of my mind, sending ripples of warmth and solace through my being. They bring more than light; they bring life—a vibrant current of renewal and strength that flows like an invisible embrace. Their presence transforms the stillness, filling it with a serene vitality that anchors me even as it lifts me beyond the boundaries of the physical.

The Velvet Cloak of Memories

My velvet cloak, shimmering in the faint light of their glow, is more than mere fabric; it is a sanctuary, a living link between realms. It is not just a piece of clothing but a symbol of my spiritual protection and connection with these souls. Draped over my shoulders, this cloak cocoons over my head and body; it feels like a secret realm, with its rich jewel tones that tell my stories —emerald green, vibrant with the promise of hope and renewal; sapphire blue, imbued with timeless wisdom that comforts my soul. The bronze highlights that ripple across this velvet fabric reveal fragments of my past, memories that shimmer like fleeting reflections on water. Surrendering in the embrace of the cloak and the souls who guide it, I feel anchored and free, its weight granting me strength as it invites me to enter the unknown. Beneath its protective folds, my inner silence finds refuge, guarded by the gentle presence of the souls who gather near, their forms drifting like whispers in the night.

Unity Beyond Life and Death

As I traverse deeper into this sacred passage, I feel the veil between life and death dissolving into unity. There is no separation here—only a shared rhythm that intertwines us all, like threads woven into an ancient tapestry unfolding elegantly across time. These souls bring me solace that defies understanding, their presence a profound reminder that we are never truly alone. In their silence, I find meaning; in their light, I sense a profoundly personal and immeasurably vast connection. Gratitude swells in my chest as I walk among them, my heart stirred by the beauty of their eternal embrace—a bond that knows neither limits nor boundaries.

The Angelic Symphony

I always imagine the angelic sounds of Tchaikovsky’s music flooding my senses, each note cascading into my being like waves breaking upon a timeless shore. The melodies weave through the air, wrapping the luminous glow of the souls around me. Together, they create a rhythm—a heartbeat of the infinite—that guides me deeper into this sacred journey I traverse with anticipation. The music is alive, a voice that speaks of life’s fragile beauty, its fleeting joys and sorrows intertwined in a harmony only the soul can comprehend.

The Celestial Waltz

As the waltz begins, its gentle cascade of movement becomes a dialogue between my heart and the realms beyond. The souls, their lights shimmering and swirling, move alongside me in perfect unison as though carried by the ethereal melody. Each step and turn feels graceful and eternal as if the music is stitching us together, binding our movements to the rhythm of existence.

Celebration of Transcendence

This is no mere dance of mourning; it is a celebration—a tribute to the love, beauty, and fleeting moments that connect us across time and space. The music elevates these moments into something transcendent, each note reminding me that in this fragile space between memory and eternity, there is an unshakable bond. The souls, the music, and the cloak envelop me, merging into a single, infinite flow of energy.

Emblems of Renewal

The vivid and precious flowers I carry, longing for vitality, become more than offerings—they are living symbols of peace, enduring love, and renewal. They are decorative elements and symbols of my emotional journey and love, life, and renewal themes. Their delicate petals spill into the folds of the cloak, their colours bleeding into the souls’ glow, creating a tapestry of life and remembrance. Together, the flowers, the souls, and the velvet embrace weave a story—a testament to the connection that binds us all across time and existence.

Transformation into the Unknown

This journey is not an end but a transformation. It is a moment of stepping into the unknown and finding not fear but comfort. In this eternal embrace of the souls and my velvet cloak, I discover a solace I had never known—a quiet strength to honour both life and death, held in love, gratitude, and an open heart. And as the souls gather near, their presence lingers like a whispered promise—a tender reminder that in the unknown, there is beauty, unity, and a peace that will forever dwell within us in ever-lasting love.

Chained Souls

Reflections of a Life Lived in the Shadows

As I look back on my life—a humble woman who quietly dwells in the shadows of romance and beauty, like poetry reciting a story—I find myself profoundly yearning for peace, an untouched oasis far removed from the chaos of the world. This yearning for tranquillity stirs a profound desire for a connection that transcends the limits of earthly existence, leaving me weary and my heart heavy with sadness.

I yearn for solitude, a sacred haven where my soul can overflow with love unspoiled by fear. In the stillness of my mind, ribbons of light and hope intertwine with the darkness, weaving a radiant tapestry that feels like a soft melody wrapping itself around present times, singing words of hope. These glowing ribbons guide me gently away from the pain of my past, pulling me toward a place of serenity and renewal.

My gown shimmers with a quiet Renaissance elegance, and wearing my long gloves keeps my soul unmarked, protected by the distant mountain peaks kissed by the first light of dawn—a luminous reflection of the landscapes I have long dreamed of traversing unseen grounds. My golden rosary, wrapped around my arm, cradles my soul as it rests in the hands of cherished friendships. Its gleaming beads shine like tiny promises, each bead a prayer for life and glory, anchoring me to those I hold dearest. Their souls remain forever intertwined with mine, a bond unbroken by time or distance, offering comfort amidst the unspoken beauty of existence. From this longing arises a journey inward, leading me to the sanctuary within my mind.

A Journey Within

As my thoughts wander, I realize that this ethereal place is not a fleeting dream—it is my sanctuary, my home. Here, I drift into the quiet abyss, where profound stillness wraps around me like a comforting embrace. The air carries a faint, earthy scent reminiscent of rain-soaked earth, grounding me in its presence. In this space, I find solace—a rare reprieve that offers me hope. I hope to rediscover my worth and the beauty within life’s burdens and sacrifices.

Memories of my loved ones bloom vividly around me, carried by the wind like whispers from the past. They are not fading recollections but living, breathing presences that surround me with their warmth. I hear the soft echoes of their laughter and the melodic rhythm of their voices, as though they are speaking just beyond my reach. These memories of my loved ones, whom I miss dearly and visit frequently, wrap around me like a warm blanket on a cold night—comforting and familiar.

Each cherished moment feels like opening the pages of a beloved, well-worn book. Every detail is etched into my heart: their smiles, steady love, and how they held my hand. Here, time loses meaning, and I am connected to them as though no distance exists, and I have never been apart from their embrace.

This place—the quiet abyss, the sanctuary of my mind—brings clarity. It shows me that despite life’s hardships, there is grace in remembering and strength in the love surrounding me, even in their absence.

A Symphony of Spirits

In this sacred realm, I stand quietly in a room with vibrant blossoms, their petals forming a tapestry of colours that pulse with life. The air is sweetened by their fragrance, carried by a gentle sea breeze whispering to my soul. This breeze, flowing from somewhere divine, stirs emotions deep within—a blend of longing, love, and comfort.

The emotions—sadness, serenity, and hope—swirl together in harmonious stillness. Angels appear; their presence is radiant and reassuring. They stroke their violins with elegant hands, their music gentle, like a lullaby for the soul. It becomes a tribute to those who have departed as spirits around me begin to dance in timeless, fluid movements carried by the melody.

The room is filled with quiet beauty, and the floating ribbons move gracefully, reflecting my inner peace. These spirits, whose presence I have often felt, bring solace. They remind me of joy beyond fear or judgment—a joy unshackled by the constraints of earthly existence.

In this realm of divine presence, I hear a voice calling to guide me through life’s and death’s mysteries.”

A Voice from the Shadows

As twilight descends, a man cloaked in flowing robes steps forward, his voice resonant as he recites from an ancient text. His words carry a truth that feels like an embrace: death is not an end but a beginning. Letting go, finding strength in vulnerability, and embracing both the light and the dark within ourselves is a passage to a realm filled with love, where kindness prevails and the bonds of the soul offer comfort during humanity’s darkest hours.

Chained Souls

“Chained Souls” is a testament to my transformation journey and personal growth. It embodies a rite of passage—a deep belief in the unseen and the courage to express truth, even in the face of life’s inevitable mortality. Through this process, I discovered the power of discipline and guidance amidst existence’s uncertainties. In the depths of darkness, I found a sanctuary where fear dissipates and love breathes life into the souls I hold dear. This sacred connection becomes a beacon, illuminating the path forward and revealing the beauty hidden within life’s mysteries.

When I embrace the light and the dark, I undergo a profound metamorphosis. This transformation reveals radiant joy—a powerful light that fills my being and opens the gates to eternity. It is a rare beauty, a treasure uncovered by believing in something more significant. “Chained Souls” is an intimate personal narrative and a reminder of the universal truth: We rediscover the boundless light of existence by facing the shadows within.

Forget Them Not

Time has always played a significant role in our lives. From the time we are born to the time of our death, “Forget Them Not” is a tribute to a time in our lives and around the time of events that shape who we are and how we all move forward. As a young girl, this was apparent in my family and lifestyle. As time catches up, I am passionate about reflecting on my feelings of love, loss, and timestamps of life. 

As a young teenager, I was absorbing my rich cultural heritage and their profound perspectives on life, the cornerstone of our existence. Though not artists in the traditional sense, my hardworking parents possessed an unparalleled ability to turn beauty out of the ordinary. Witnessing their creativity come to life was mesmerizing. From this moment, I inherited the dreamer’s spirit – a strong passion for dreaming and envisioning a different way of life for myself. Like them, I began to sow the seeds of my ambitions and nurture what held significance in my values. 

My Italian upbringing stood apparent in contrast to the norms around me, prompting reflections on the uniqueness of our cultural practices. My father and I once skinned rabbits in the confines of our garage, or should I say I assisted him, as that event left a permanent impression on me. For our large Italian family, rabbits were a staple in our culinary traditions. But this day, witnessing rabbits prepared for life-altering festivities was a profound detail in time. It felt as though I watched the loss of cherished beings. My bunnies became symbols of beloved individuals, victims in a world that can be harsh. In my imagination and visions of thought, I grant them a place in a realm fused with love, where their passing is sacred, adored, and commemorated. They morphed into imaginary companions, returning to life through my paintings, infusing them with love and honour.

My painting, “Forget Them Not” is a tribute to those who question time and the diverse cultures and ways of life that exist beyond our own. This pivotal experience relentlessly influences the person I am today. Time, love, and memories have shaped my thought processes and redefined my very being. Remembering family and the multitude of cultures that comprise it, I find a profound richness that should be cherished and embraced where time heals time in an era of time.

GATEWAY TO YOUR SOUL

This piece is a personal journey for me, centered on the profound significance of the eyes.

When I think of my mother, the image of her eyes on that day, as she got on the bus, has never left me and feels forever sewn into my very being. I have kept this exchange with her eyes close to my heart since I was eight years old and have never forgotten that intense, meaningful gaze.

One day, my mother and I were boarding a bus. She couldn’t drive at the time, so she sat on one side and allowed me to sit on the opposite side. As a young girl, I was curious and restless, wiggling in my seat as children often do. She was a strong, beautiful woman with piercing blue eyes like the ocean. As she looked at me, her eyes locked with mine, speaking to me silently and clearly. I never forgot that image—her eyes speaking volumes without a single word. That moment of silent communication remains etched in my memory, the magic of it resonating deeply within me as she seemed to peer into my soul.

When I express myself through paint on canvas, the eyes are always the first mark I make. This piece stands as a testament to that initial, silent exchange with my mother.

In my youth, I saw immense struggle and passion in my mother’s eyes. She always said that eyes are meant to be seen and to see through. I’ve learned to use that insight, guiding my own eyes to follow the light on a journey through the minds of others and myself. Now that I’m older, I understand the depth of passion and struggle she felt. I see the eyes as a powerful form of expression and a portal to the souls I paint.

This contemplation often leaves me wondering what it would be like to walk through the eyes of others and myself, as they are the gateway to our souls. By using my mind to see and enter that gateway, I explore my journey further, discovering the passions that envelop both others and myself.

Exploring every part of my being, encountering my inner darkness, and witnessing what lies beyond a door brings magic and excitement. Discovering oneself through strength, inspiration, and creativity is profound. This incredible magic allows me to see deeper into that dark tunnel, eagerly providing more insight. It is my chance to cleanse without stifling my creativity. Social responsibility, family, war, love, and tears are images seen through the eyes. Through creation and imagination that transcend the norm, I gather the courage to confront myself, embrace vulnerability, and face the silence that surrounds me.

As a creator, I am merely scratching the surface. I must delve deeper within myself to find solace in my inner sanctuary—a place of safety where I can be truly myself without fear.

Upon entering my sanctuary, The Hidden Realm, you encounter my dreams and struggles, hearing only the voice of darkness that has always existed within me but is buried deep.

Only I can shed tears and learn to forgive those who doubt me. I must stay true to myself, for without dreams and magical thinking, we would drown in darkness, unable to see the light that surrounds us.

OSTIARIUS

At some point in life, everyone encounters a gatekeeper in one form or another. For me, this gatekeeper embodies the force behind reality and illusion—a state of mind akin to entering a complex machine that operates incessantly before rejuvenating itself for the night. It’s a state of mind I cherish.

The gatekeeper is the custodian of energy, orchestrating communication throughout the creative process, and safeguarding all that is sacred, thus harmonizing the inner self and laying the groundwork for a fresh start.

In my realm, the gatekeeper (Ostiarius) is the threshold to another world, a clandestine domain where dreams materialize, and darkness serves as the canvas for boundless imagination—a realm devoid of boundaries and limitations.

As I tread through the seemingly endless path of darkness, distant lights emerge to guide me towards an unknown haven of tranquility. Here, I shed all burdens, reigning as the sovereign of my hidden kingdom, traversing fields adorned with vibrant blooms and golden hues, as the light reflects my fervor in the distance.

The dark caves serve as a poignant reminder that fear has no place in transforming rare beauty into its purest essence. To navigate uncharted territories and carve my niche in time, I must align with the universe, embracing risks and evolution, for within darkness lies the potential for everyday life to embrace extraordinary beauty.

Embracing self-belief and the boundless prospects to explore and indulge in passions epitomizes the essence of the gatekeeper within us all—our personal Ostiarius.

SEEDS THAT GROW IN DARKNESS

Ever contemplated how the mind stores information, laying the foundation for branching out into unexplored realms? I often reflect on my journey, from a mere seed to the flourishing being I am today. From an early age, I was drawn to the earth, relishing the sensation of moist soil underfoot, running hands through gardens, embracing the scent of growth and decay—a vivid affirmation of life. Yet, amid this vibrancy, a curiosity led me into the darkness, where I planted seeds of the unknown, fueled by imagination.

This painting delves into the realms I traverse when seeking complete darkness—a sanctuary for my mind to sow seeds, witnessing them evolve into new possibilities. It’s a refuge for dreaming the impossible and fully surrendering to the obscurity that, paradoxically, nurtures growth. In this comforting abyss, I find solace, reminding me that a humble seed in the mind can blossom into extraordinary beauty when surrounded by darkness—a world I willingly embrace.

Constantly decomposing and renewing oneself, akin to tending a garden with fresh soil, watering, and pruning, fosters change, growth, and equilibrium. This ongoing process transforms into a beautiful manifestation, evoking feelings of calm, serenity, joy, and happiness. Hence, darkness becomes my source of joy, emotional fulfillment, and peace—a realm of perpetual growth and gratitude.

Celebration of Life

As this painting unfolds and reaches completion, it serves as a poignant reflection of my memories and emotions surrounding the loss of my parents, while also celebrating the enduring love I hold for them. It stands as a heartfelt tribute to their presence in my life and the profound impact they’ve had on me as an artist.

The image of my father’s flourishing gardeners’ pot of flowers becomes a powerful symbol of his resilience and the joy he found in nurturing life despite the challenges he faced. Our conversations about life became timeless moments of connection, and through this painting, I pay homage to his memory and the profound influence he had on shaping me as a person and an artist.

Similarly, my mother’s ability to bring color and beauty to our lives represents her vibrant spirit and the daily inspiration she provided. As I paint, I carry their memories with me, expressing profound gratitude for their influence on my culture and artistic journey.

I fondly remember butterflies fluttering around us as I grew up, symbolizing the innocence and wonder of childhood. These cherished memories hold a special place in my heart and continue to manifest in my own colorful garden, providing a sense of connection to my past and the natural world.

The loss of both my parents, especially my father’s passing without anyone by his side, evokes a profound sense of loneliness. It also brings to light the challenging circumstances faced by many during the Covid-19 pandemic, where physical presence and support were limited. This painting serves as a reminder of the universal experience of loss and the collective grief felt by people worldwide during those trying times.

Ultimately, this artwork becomes a tribute to everyone who has loved and lost. It acknowledges the shared human experience of grief and invites those who resonate with these emotions to find solace and connection within its depiction. The painting symbolizes a hidden realm of love, beauty, and peace, where we can find comfort and drift off into dreams that transcend the limitations of our everyday lives.

Through this heartfelt expression, I extend an invitation to others to celebrate life’s beauty in their own unique ways and cherish the memories of their loved ones. It becomes a poignant reminder to embrace love, seek peacefulness, and appreciate the sense of safety that allows us all to enter that hidden realm where we can dream the impossible.