Women have been marginalized throughout recorded history. Yet in ancient times some cultures, such as the Irish, accorded women equal status; women were philosophers, mothers, intellectuals, and artists; they were poets, protectors, goddesses, and warriors.

I am studying women from the past and learning about the influence of and contributions made by some. Ancient Goddesses, like most women, had many roles. A reflection of both multiple roles and our modern society where information overload is a daily occurrence, these pieces contain numerous images. I select symbols from her story and images of their lands and cultures to reference the woman in question. In “Brighid” the Giant’s Causeway serves to reference Ireland, while the stone itself implies both ancient times and the passage of time, continuity and the Earth.

Each woman, be she goddess or mortal, is chosen with care to represent her time and her people and each made a significant difference. I strive to interpret ancient stories and historic events in a symbolic and meaningful way. Lozen, an Apache warrior and shaman, is shown with tepees and mustangs; while one represents Lozen’s way of life and the other her spirit, both are dying, through the dissolution of a culture just as she did. Working with layers of images containing layers of meaning, I provide my interpretation of the life of each woman I portray.