Ever since I was a young child I have sensed the presence of the Ancestors (many of the Celtic persuasion!) - protecting, helping and guiding me. Much of my art is influenced by their presence - a source much akin to a deep and quiet spring that nurtures and nourishes my need to create.

When creating my art I let intuition guide me. Not having a concrete goal in mind, often I am drawn to a particular subject, not understanding quite why, but allow myself to follow its path. Only after the image is complete or "at rest" do I step back, reflect,(sometimes for weeks or months!) realize the link, recognize the influence of the Ancestors and say "Ahh!"

One recurring subject in my work is the bear. I have always been drawn to the bear but never understood or questioned why. After collecting many paintings, photographs and images of Bear by other artists as well as myself, I was able to see the connection:

Bear - Primal Mother in Celtic tradition
Andarta: She bear Goddess
Protector of the animals

Bear is rhythm, cycle, hunter, protector.
Bear persists, as does the circle.
Circles - of which we are all a part.

Bears, Mothers, Andarta, Ancestors - their gift to me has been an inner strength, a rootedness that provides me a sense of strong loyalty, large love and deep power, deep kindness - all of which I hope to to impart in my work.

If we keep awake and listen we can hear the whispers and wishes of the Ancestors revealed in all our creative endeavors!

- Alyce Underhill

 

Click Portfolio of Images to see more Andarta Imagery. The portfolio features a selection of Digital Art as well as Photography by Alyce Underhill.

Contact Alyce to purchase Andarta Imagery as fine art photographs, posters, or greeting cards.