"Creativity is like a tree that blossoms in the mind, bearing flowers and fruit for the betterment of all mankind."

"The beauty, wonder and magic of art lies in the ability to connect and interpret imagery subjectively and personally. I created this painting with the intent to conceptually capture the essence of a Dive Mother of heaven and earth as a tree.

Surprisingly throughout the process, the painting continually reflected something more for me (and hopefully the viewer) to ponder. For instance, her Divine Feminine energy brought about characteristic and representations of all women throughout time and eternity. I had moments where I just sat in my studio pondering Eve and the many heroins of the Bible. I saw myself in her, my daughters, my sisters and my friends. Delightfully, I was reminded that we all bear fruit and are invited to be partakers of our Divine Nature. I also thought about the many virtuous aspects and characteristics of what it means to be a Woman. While painting this, I also discovered that she embodied many of the archetypes: The Sage, The Innocent, The Explorer, Ruler, Creator, Magician, and Hero...

The goal of this piece was to design a long celestial dress that would fuse organically into a tree. Most notably, it is an olive tree for its richly symbolic. spiritual and historic meanings. I wanted her to embody strength and grace like a heavenly pillar with the essence of a being grounded, earthy, yet, ethereal. The symbol of the pear fruit touches on the sweetness of knowledge and the divine design of the female figure. Holding the fruit like a torch eludes to the idealized symbol as a "Giver of Life." Her other outstretched hand and graceful gesture suggests she is open and willing to extend her loving hand to anyone and in any situation.

The symbol of the Tree of Life has always been prevalent in many people's lives. In fact, there are various cultural and biblical beliefs about the tree of Life and the symbol of a Mother Tree. I'm grateful my artwork allows me to channel inspiration and unlock the curiosities about this sacred and treasured knowledge. Just like the relationship we have with our mothers or mother figures, I love the symbiotic relationship that we have with trees. They literally give us oxygen to breathe. The intuitive, interconnection and communication among trees is so fascinating and mysterious. I equate this mystery and synergy to humans' attempt and need to communicate with Deity. My most sacred place to pray and meditate is in the forest. I instantly feel more connected to the earth and the Divine Universe. When I sit quietly to listen to the ebb and flow of water and hear the birds travel and chirp from branch to branch, I begin to feel the whispers of leaves and the comfort of a gentle breeze. Being in Nature has the beauty to heighten all of our senses and calmly still the soul. One cannot help discover that the idea and presence of a Divine Mother of all living is most definitely glorious beyond measure and beyond our imaginations." - Lindsey Erin