Ancient Archetype No. 1 - The Alchemist

Ancient Archetype No. 1 - The Alchemist
Originally uploaded by ms_mod

This piece is part of my new Ancient Archetype Series, a series of collages that will explore the multitude of sacred elements that comprise the collective unconscious.

The Alchemist
This archetype's defining trait is the act of converting some form of matter into an altered expression of itself. It often relies on a combination of chemistry, magic, and philosophy and thrives on the mysterious, and often enchanting, relationship between matter and the creation of life. This fairytale insect hybrid is no exception. According to ancient folklore, despite her cumbersome insect casing, she always loved to dance and moved with a grace and spirit that belied her sharp, pointy exterior. In an effort to increase her ease of movement and mobility, she deconstructed her outer shell to resemble an intricately beautiful ball gown, perfect for pirouetting through life.