Fish or Cut Bait! (aka Aquatic Madonna)
We have all had times in our lives when we realized we were at a turning point and must make a decision that would be irreversible. These feelings of pressure, excitement, fear, adventure? All are expressed through our Mermaid Madonna, and her ambivalence is evident when we examine her surroundings. First of all, where is she? The five portholes visible running across the top third of the canvas tell us that she is submerged underwater. This is a transitional place for her because though her feet are dry, she is definitely immersing herself in the ocean. She just isn’t quite ready to give up those heels as a trade-off for unfurling her tail! Another clue that she has not committed to a permanent life under the sea is the diving helmet near her tail. This is a subtle reminder of the effects of too much baggage which occurs when one refuses to let go by making the tough decisions.
So really, what is a mermaid? In folklore a mermaid has the head and upper body of a woman and the tail of a fish. She is beautiful and she is vain, often depicted combing her long flowing hair and gazing into a mirror. A mermaid’s purpose is to lure sailors and she is therefore forced to rely on beauty and charm. But what if a mermaid had no need of sailors? What if her goals were other? This mythical woman is a shapeshifter! A transmogrifier! But does she rely on divine intervention or the use of magic? She is a modern fantasy. She is the endgame of pop culture. But she is not a werewolf, and she is not a vampire! You may fear that her purpose is punitive, but this mermaid is not trying to drown you or drink your blood!
And you know, as sea travel historically became less dangerous, so did mermaids! With fewer and fewer tragedies happening to sailors and ships, mermaids slowly evolved into less threatening creatures. A more romantic view of the mermaid was introduced during the 18th century with the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, “The Little Mermaid.” Since then, mermaids have been perceived more often as secretive and good natured creatures that have a natural curiosity about life above the sea. In fact shape-shifting is often used as a plot device wherein a female form is perceived as being a threat, when really she has merely set out on a path that is non-traditional.
The aura surrounding the mermaid’s head is a porthole, or a portal--also known as the end of a tunnel, and in most cases, a means of entering another realm. Classically speaking this hints at travel to the land of enlightenment.
The background of the painting is a stylized shell pattern of repeated scallops. Scallops are generally considered to be free-living and active. The scallop shell has become symbolic of a journey, particularly a spiritual journey. For example, the scallop design symbolizes the many starting points from which pilgrims begin their journeys, and their commonality is symbolized by the fact that they are all drawn to a single point at the base of the shell. This has become such an accepted idea that scallops are still used today in their physical form as indicators or guiding marks that a pilgrim is on the correct path.
Scallop shells have also been used to symbolize the feminine principle which is seen as protective and nurturing. Many paintings of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and fertility, employ a scallop shell this way. Alternatively, the scallop shell is said to resemble the setting sun and encourages the viewer to consider the passage of time.
Complex spiral shells such as the conch can be seen as representing security or protection. This indicates that someone is not showing her true self or real feelings. She is protecting herself from getting hurt, and is also reclusive and emotionally closed off. Our mermaid is sitting in a conch shell, but she appears to be emerging from it, not withdrawing into it.
Many of my Madonna paintings feature a string of pearls. In this painting, however, the image of the pearl is a little more in your face. There is only one pearl, signifying the importance of unity of thought and devotion to a singular path. And of course, it emphasizes the idea of growth under pressure. Sometimes we have to be forced into an uncomfortable situation in order to eventually move forward.
As previously referenced, this painting offers a series of five portholes. The number five is often referred to as the link between heaven and earth. It refers to the five senses, and unlike even numbers, it is somewhat unstable, hinting at change and the need to alter your course.
It is common to see round windows in vessels that are subject to stress, and the reason is to avoid weak points which are often found at square corners where cracks can form and develop. An Oculus, or circular window, has been observed in Classical architecture since the 16th century. They are often called by their French name, “oeil de boeuf” or “bull’s eye.” This implies that they function as a type of target or guiding force, which serves to focus the attention of the viewer.
Most of the five portholes offer views of placid sea water and calmly swimming, if somewhat curious, fish. The fifth one, however, has been pierced by a shark. Sharks are commonly symbolic of anger, hostility and fierceness. If one identifies with this creature, she may be undergoing a long and difficult emotional period and may be seen to be an emotional threat to herself or to others. Perhaps she is struggling with her individuality and independence, especially in some aspect of her relationships. A shark can also represent one who is greedy and unscrupulous. This kind of person goes after what she wants with no regard to the well-being and sensitivity of others. Because of all of these negative connotations, I hesitate to admit that I am the self proclaimed “Art Shark.” Certain aspects of this description do indeed fit me. I like to think, however, that I am more aligned with the relentlessly hard working aspects of the shark than the greedy grasping traits! Of course, due to the phallic nature of the encroaching shark, perhaps the mermaid does not identify with it, but instead fears it.
In the shark’s mouth the viewer will find an alarm clock. I put this here because I have an ongoing adversarial relationship with the concept of time. I also wanted to underscore the idea that the mermaid is subjected to the ticking clock with regard to her need to make a choice about her destiny. The fact that this is an alarm clock is significant. Perhaps the mermaid is alarmed and concerned that she is being forced to make a decision, and therefore feels as though her time is running out. Note that the time on the clock is set at 10:10. This is, interestingly enough, the time that most clocks are set at when they are being sold because it gives the illusion of two upraised hands, hopefully an uplifting bit of symbolism.
The porthole nearest the head of the mermaid forms a halo around her head and is surrounded by eleven red starfish. These famous five-pronged fish are usually associated with a period of healing and regeneration. Alternatively, they suggest that the mermaid has many options to weigh and decisions to make. Stars in general can signify a desire for fame and fortune. Since we have already discussed time, it is no coincidence that there are eleven stars. It is the eleventh hour and this girl must make a choice.
The third porthole features a close-up view of a blue iris. You could say in effect that this is the third eye. This traditionally refers to the gate that leads to inner realms and spaces of higher consciousness. People who claim to have the capacity to utilize their third eyes are sometimes known as seers. The presence of the eye in the third opening suggests that the mermaid needs to look within and on a higher plane to find her answers.
The view of the ocean through the portholes allows the viewer to peer into the emotions and feelings of the painting’s subject. The ocean is generally indicative of spiritual refreshment, tranquility and renewal. It universally leaves one feeling empowered and unhindered, as though one has a positive outlook on life and is not limited by anything. Sailing across the ocean typically signifies new found freedom and independence.
The cumbersome diving helmet in the bottom right of the painting maintains an ominous presence. If the mermaid chooses to remain human, this is the only way she will be able to function underwater. Subconsciously, when one considers diving in general, she is trying to get to the bottom of a current situation or the root of her problems or feelings. It seem significant then that the mermaid’s tale is somewhat obscuring the helmet.
The porthole directly over the head of the mermaid features a golden fish. This functions almost like a glowing crown, and it symbolizes riches, natural healing, illumination and spirituality. That the fish is nearest to the subject is perhaps a positive signifier that the mermaid will surely gain access to these concepts and abilities.
At the base of the painting, there rests a pair of red shoes. In general, shoes represent one’s approach to life--their path. Wearing shoes indicates that one is well-grounded or down to earth. It represents her convictions about her beliefs. If you are changing your shoes, this refers to your changing roles-you are taking a new approach to life. But if you set your shoes aside or forget them, it suggests that you are leaving behind your inhibitions, or perhaps that you are refusing to conform to some idea or attitude. That the shoes are red like the stars forces a connection or comparision. If the stars represent the woman’s spiritual life, the shoes can be seen to exist entirely on the physical plane. They seem to be cast aside, but not completely shunned. Will the mermaid turn away from her earthly, human body, or does the presence of the shoes signify that she is conflicted and and hesitant to do so?
The empty electrical socket at the bottom left indicates perhaps that not all assets are being utilized. Or maybe it is warning that there is a distinct division, a wall if you will, between the world of water and the world of dry land. In other words, there is no going back once the decision has been made.
So really, what is a mermaid? In folklore a mermaid has the head and upper body of a woman and the tail of a fish. She is beautiful and she is vain, often depicted combing her long flowing hair and gazing into a mirror. A mermaid’s purpose is to lure sailors and she is therefore forced to rely on beauty and charm. But what if a mermaid had no need of sailors? What if her goals were other? This mythical woman is a shapeshifter! A transmogrifier! But does she rely on divine intervention or the use of magic? She is a modern fantasy. She is the endgame of pop culture. But she is not a werewolf, and she is not a vampire! You may fear that her purpose is punitive, but this mermaid is not trying to drown you or drink your blood!
And you know, as sea travel historically became less dangerous, so did mermaids! With fewer and fewer tragedies happening to sailors and ships, mermaids slowly evolved into less threatening creatures. A more romantic view of the mermaid was introduced during the 18th century with the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, “The Little Mermaid.” Since then, mermaids have been perceived more often as secretive and good natured creatures that have a natural curiosity about life above the sea. In fact shape-shifting is often used as a plot device wherein a female form is perceived as being a threat, when really she has merely set out on a path that is non-traditional.
The aura surrounding the mermaid’s head is a porthole, or a portal--also known as the end of a tunnel, and in most cases, a means of entering another realm. Classically speaking this hints at travel to the land of enlightenment.
The background of the painting is a stylized shell pattern of repeated scallops. Scallops are generally considered to be free-living and active. The scallop shell has become symbolic of a journey, particularly a spiritual journey. For example, the scallop design symbolizes the many starting points from which pilgrims begin their journeys, and their commonality is symbolized by the fact that they are all drawn to a single point at the base of the shell. This has become such an accepted idea that scallops are still used today in their physical form as indicators or guiding marks that a pilgrim is on the correct path.
Scallop shells have also been used to symbolize the feminine principle which is seen as protective and nurturing. Many paintings of Venus, the Roman goddess of love and fertility, employ a scallop shell this way. Alternatively, the scallop shell is said to resemble the setting sun and encourages the viewer to consider the passage of time.
Complex spiral shells such as the conch can be seen as representing security or protection. This indicates that someone is not showing her true self or real feelings. She is protecting herself from getting hurt, and is also reclusive and emotionally closed off. Our mermaid is sitting in a conch shell, but she appears to be emerging from it, not withdrawing into it.
Many of my Madonna paintings feature a string of pearls. In this painting, however, the image of the pearl is a little more in your face. There is only one pearl, signifying the importance of unity of thought and devotion to a singular path. And of course, it emphasizes the idea of growth under pressure. Sometimes we have to be forced into an uncomfortable situation in order to eventually move forward.
As previously referenced, this painting offers a series of five portholes. The number five is often referred to as the link between heaven and earth. It refers to the five senses, and unlike even numbers, it is somewhat unstable, hinting at change and the need to alter your course.
It is common to see round windows in vessels that are subject to stress, and the reason is to avoid weak points which are often found at square corners where cracks can form and develop. An Oculus, or circular window, has been observed in Classical architecture since the 16th century. They are often called by their French name, “oeil de boeuf” or “bull’s eye.” This implies that they function as a type of target or guiding force, which serves to focus the attention of the viewer.
Most of the five portholes offer views of placid sea water and calmly swimming, if somewhat curious, fish. The fifth one, however, has been pierced by a shark. Sharks are commonly symbolic of anger, hostility and fierceness. If one identifies with this creature, she may be undergoing a long and difficult emotional period and may be seen to be an emotional threat to herself or to others. Perhaps she is struggling with her individuality and independence, especially in some aspect of her relationships. A shark can also represent one who is greedy and unscrupulous. This kind of person goes after what she wants with no regard to the well-being and sensitivity of others. Because of all of these negative connotations, I hesitate to admit that I am the self proclaimed “Art Shark.” Certain aspects of this description do indeed fit me. I like to think, however, that I am more aligned with the relentlessly hard working aspects of the shark than the greedy grasping traits! Of course, due to the phallic nature of the encroaching shark, perhaps the mermaid does not identify with it, but instead fears it.
In the shark’s mouth the viewer will find an alarm clock. I put this here because I have an ongoing adversarial relationship with the concept of time. I also wanted to underscore the idea that the mermaid is subjected to the ticking clock with regard to her need to make a choice about her destiny. The fact that this is an alarm clock is significant. Perhaps the mermaid is alarmed and concerned that she is being forced to make a decision, and therefore feels as though her time is running out. Note that the time on the clock is set at 10:10. This is, interestingly enough, the time that most clocks are set at when they are being sold because it gives the illusion of two upraised hands, hopefully an uplifting bit of symbolism.
The porthole nearest the head of the mermaid forms a halo around her head and is surrounded by eleven red starfish. These famous five-pronged fish are usually associated with a period of healing and regeneration. Alternatively, they suggest that the mermaid has many options to weigh and decisions to make. Stars in general can signify a desire for fame and fortune. Since we have already discussed time, it is no coincidence that there are eleven stars. It is the eleventh hour and this girl must make a choice.
The third porthole features a close-up view of a blue iris. You could say in effect that this is the third eye. This traditionally refers to the gate that leads to inner realms and spaces of higher consciousness. People who claim to have the capacity to utilize their third eyes are sometimes known as seers. The presence of the eye in the third opening suggests that the mermaid needs to look within and on a higher plane to find her answers.
The view of the ocean through the portholes allows the viewer to peer into the emotions and feelings of the painting’s subject. The ocean is generally indicative of spiritual refreshment, tranquility and renewal. It universally leaves one feeling empowered and unhindered, as though one has a positive outlook on life and is not limited by anything. Sailing across the ocean typically signifies new found freedom and independence.
The cumbersome diving helmet in the bottom right of the painting maintains an ominous presence. If the mermaid chooses to remain human, this is the only way she will be able to function underwater. Subconsciously, when one considers diving in general, she is trying to get to the bottom of a current situation or the root of her problems or feelings. It seem significant then that the mermaid’s tale is somewhat obscuring the helmet.
The porthole directly over the head of the mermaid features a golden fish. This functions almost like a glowing crown, and it symbolizes riches, natural healing, illumination and spirituality. That the fish is nearest to the subject is perhaps a positive signifier that the mermaid will surely gain access to these concepts and abilities.
At the base of the painting, there rests a pair of red shoes. In general, shoes represent one’s approach to life--their path. Wearing shoes indicates that one is well-grounded or down to earth. It represents her convictions about her beliefs. If you are changing your shoes, this refers to your changing roles-you are taking a new approach to life. But if you set your shoes aside or forget them, it suggests that you are leaving behind your inhibitions, or perhaps that you are refusing to conform to some idea or attitude. That the shoes are red like the stars forces a connection or comparision. If the stars represent the woman’s spiritual life, the shoes can be seen to exist entirely on the physical plane. They seem to be cast aside, but not completely shunned. Will the mermaid turn away from her earthly, human body, or does the presence of the shoes signify that she is conflicted and and hesitant to do so?
The empty electrical socket at the bottom left indicates perhaps that not all assets are being utilized. Or maybe it is warning that there is a distinct division, a wall if you will, between the world of water and the world of dry land. In other words, there is no going back once the decision has been made.