Of Myth and Magic

Based on "The 2012 Calendar - Crystal Wind Fantasy Collection"

Distant Love - Musings on Desire

February calls forth the resurgence of life with passionate declarations, floral offerings and a spectrum of amorous red to banish winter's chill.

Valentines originated as ballots for romantic partners which were drawn on Lupercalia, a Roman festival dedicated to Juno Februata, the goddess of "febris" or the "fever of love". Born from the ardent excess of the pagan world, February remains, millenia later, the designated month of desire.

"Distant Love" is offered as a means to reflect on your own experience, your personal myth.Is it a love lost, sent, or soon to return, that "Distant Love" contemplates? As you wander through the heart's chambers of desire, what manner of dreamer do you become?

Perhaps this pensive enigma is Psyche, yearning to be reunited with Eros, Aphrodite's son and love's winged messenger. It is only after many ordeals and tests of devotion that Psyche and Eros, the mortal and the divine, are wed in celestial splendour.

Emulating the archetype of Psyche, many have devoted their lives to an impossible passion; the ongoing quest for the immortal beloved and erotic transfiguration. This beloved, or idealized object of desire, thus functions as a symbol, a projection of what is already possessed but latent within: the lover's unconcious urge towards self-realization and oneness with all.

As Psyche and Eros are reunited, may our desires be granted. If desire is based on elusive fantasy or a larger truth, may it serve as a compass towards wisdom and authentic bliss.
"Distant Love" is available as a card and print at www.zazzle.com/crystalwind/gifts

All artwork and text Copyright 2011 Lisa Iris. All Rights Reserved. Reprinted with permission from Crystal Wind™, www.crystalwind.ca, Exclusive Licensed Worldwide agents for Lisa Iris, www.lisairis.ca

Venus and Mars will be the Oracle 20-20 Feb.cover!

Venus and Mars by Lisa Iris

The passion of Venus and Mars portrays the creative synergy from the union of opposities. This dance of duality mirrors the double helix of life. Is resolution or equalibrium possible between the Goddess of Love and the God of War? The Ancients answer "Amor Omnia Vincit."

Visit www.zazzle.com/crystalwind/gifts for Mythic Notebooks for your 2012 Journaling!

All Artwork and text is Copyright 2012 Lisa Iris. All Rights Reserved. Reprinted with permission from Crystal Wind™ crystalwind.ca Exclusive Licensed Worldwide agents for Lisa Iris, lisairis.ca

About Our Cover

An elusive instant is the bridge between devic and human reality. A beguiling wood nymph appears, beckoning you into a shimmering world. Will you follow?

"Fairy Tale" appears on posters, notecards and calendars at www.lisairis.ca

Of Myth and Magic

A new feature by Lisa Iris based on the 2012 Calendar – Crystal Wind Fantasy Collection
www.zazzle.com/crystalwind/gifts

Perseus - The Hero's Journey

As December's festivities fade into a memory, the bleak grasp of winter returns. At the threshold of a new year, ritual libations are lifted to the Fates to invoke their favour. Strengthened by vows, or resolutions, we bravely embark into the unknown. Perseus joins us as the archetype for the hero's journey.

Perseus dominates a glacial landscape, impervious to the elements. His eyes are fixed on an inner quest, looking far beyond the impending storm. Pegasus, whose name means "to spring forth", embodies the call to freedom and adventure. This mythic creature rose from the spilled blood of Medusa. As Perseus slays this snake-tressed symbol of negation, the liberated self is born, taking flight.

Perhaps this painting is the prelude to Andromeda's rescue. The hero's journey begins with trials that temper character and forge physical strength. The most noble acts of valour are those which secure peace and prosperity.

Like Perseus, we venture forth in defiance of the gathering clouds, resisting the pull of the Gorgon's glare. The subtle victories of daily life merge as hope and an unknowable destiny. Like Perseus, we become "The Hero with a Thousand Faces."

January 2012 Newsletter
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All Artwork and text is Copyright 2011 Lisa Iris. All Rights Reserved. Reprinted with permission from Crystal Wind™ www.crystalwind.ca
Exclusive Licensed Worldwide agents for Lisa Iris.