What is Spirituality?
Artists, philosophers, and thinkers have long sought the answer to one of humanity's most profound questions: What is higher intelligence, and how does it shape our daily lives, our communities, our nations, and our global society? What does it mean for the exploration of outer space and the final frontier? On Earth, with its vast array of cultures, religions, and ethnicities, what is the common thread that unites us all? Are we too divided to work together, or can we overcome these differences and unite to reach for the stars? Regardless of our backgrounds, we should celebrate our differences and embrace one another for the diversity that makes us stronger. To me, the Holy Spirit that connects us all is something not always visible in this realm, though it reveals itself in the subtle moments of life. It is what binds us together, no matter what we call it. For me, this force is the Tetragrammaton—a higher power that flows through me as a conduit, urging me to become the best version of myself, no matter the obstacles.What is Paganism?
Spirituality, in its essence, has always intrigued me—the hidden and the unknown, the worlds beyond the physical that shape human belief and existence. Growing up in a diverse environment where I encountered a broad spectrum of beliefs—ranging from faith-based religions to agnosticism and atheism—I became deeply aware of how varied and personal spirituality can be. In the United States, the freedom of religion offers a unique space where individuals are free to choose and express their beliefs, while also ensuring their rights are protected, even in professional settings.However, I’ve also observed the rise of Christian nationalism in modern Western culture, a trend that has steadily become more prominent in the last two millennia. This movement is not just about religious faith, but about aligning political and cultural identity with a particular interpretation of Christianity. This shift plays a significant role in shaping public discourse, sometimes reinforcing division but also creating an interesting juxtaposition to the rising alternative spiritual practices in today’s world.One such practice that I found particularly fascinating is modern Paganism, which led me to study Paganism and Witchcraft in Birmingham, Alabama. When I first encountered Neo-Pagans, I was captivated by the diversity and depth of their beliefs. Contrary to common misconceptions, they were deeply patriotic individuals, devoted to the U.S. Constitution, and passionate supporters of the military. The level of education and intellectual curiosity they possessed was remarkable—they were not only well-versed in their own spiritual practices but also avid readers of history, culture, and philosophy. Their approach to spirituality is rooted in an exploration of ancient cultures and wisdom, often to better understand their own beliefs and how they fit into the broader world.In modern Paganism, it’s important to recognize that it’s an umbrella term, much like Christianity, encompassing a broad spectrum of practices and beliefs. Not all Pagans practice witchcraft, and some might focus more on nature worship, ancestral reverence, or other mystical practices. Witchcraft, often misunderstood and regarded as dark or illicit, is in fact a spiritual tool—an integral part of modern Paganism that serves as a method for individuals to explore their own spirituality. It is a way to harness energy, invoke rituals, and align oneself with the forces of nature to find clarity and enlightenment. Witchcraft, like many spiritual practices, serves as a guide on the path toward personal transformation and greater understanding of the self.Ancient Paganism, in contrast to modern interpretations, was deeply rooted in the cycles of nature, seasons, and the worship of multiple deities representing different forces of the natural world. It was a way of life that viewed the sacred in everything, from the earth beneath our feet to the stars above. In the 21st century, Paganism has evolved into a more individualized practice, with many branches existing under its umbrella. Some contemporary Pagans focus on rituals that honor the Earth, while others draw upon the mysticism of ancient gods and goddesses, seeking to integrate them into their lives in meaningful ways.Through my exploration of these spiritual practices, I have come to appreciate the complexity of belief systems and the role they play in shaping identity and understanding. As we navigate the modern world, we are constantly faced with new ways of looking at the divine, the unknown, and the invisible forces that guide us. Paganism, and the many forms it takes today, provides a rich, diverse framework for exploring spirituality—one that honors the past while remaining firmly grounded in the present.
Mysticism
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2019
Oil Painting on Canvas, 16” x 20”
Description
Mysticism is the pursuit of spiritual truths beyond ordinary perception, seeking to connect with higher states of consciousness. The pentagram, a five-pointed star, represents the five elements—Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Spirit—each symbolizing a different aspect of existence. For the artist, Earth represents stability and the physical medium of creation; Fire embodies inspiration and transformation; Water reflects emotion and intuition; Air signifies intellect and expansion; and Spirit is the source of divine connection and creativity. Together, these elements create a balanced foundation for the artist’s creative journey.
The Spiritual Warrior
The Awakening of a Lost Spiritual Warrior
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2024
Oil Painting on Canvas, 30” x 40”
Description
What is a warrior? More specifically, what is a spiritual warrior, and do they even exist? Through my journey within the Pagan community, I unearthed fragments of forgotten memories—remnants of something deliberately erased, silenced, or psychologically suppressed. There is an identity within me that remains hidden, something I was trained to conceal. Yet, in fleeting moments, I began to awaken to it. These memories surfaced slowly, like whispers carried by the wind, until they grew into a storm—a hurricane of what I once was. Without tangible proof, they may seem like illusions, but I know the truth of my path, my purpose, and my service to humanity. That is my secret. What’s yours?
Learning about ancestral pasts through Paganism became a key to unlocking these fragmented memories. Through Reiki healing, I discovered a way to reconnect with lost pieces of myself. Reiki, an ancient form of energy healing, works holistically to restore balance within the mind, body, and soul. It operates on the principle that energy flows through all living beings and, when disrupted, can cause physical, emotional, or spiritual distress. By aligning and channeling this energy, Reiki fosters deep healing, allowing suppressed memories and emotions to surface in a safe, transformative way. The integration of mind, body, and spirit is essential—not only for personal well-being but for understanding the deeper truths that exist beyond the physical world.
Through artistic expression, these hidden fragments take form. Art serves as a gateway—a bridge between past and present, reality and memory, the known and the forgotten. It allows one to piece together the narratives of a lost past, to give shape to the intangible. Some secrets remain locked away, concealed to protect national security interests and the greater good of the United States. There is power in silence, in the unspoken truths that shape our world. Sometimes, it is best to let the echoes of the past remain in the shadows, only glimpsed through the brushstrokes of a canvas, the rhythm of a sculpture, or the whispers of an unfinished story.
Raft Collaboration with Stacey Holloway
Raft is a collaborative project of artists invited by Assistant Sculpture Professor Stacey Holloway to participate. Holloway, who is a Sculpture Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, curated this project where each artist was tasked with painting a series of otters. The artwork was displayed at a gallery at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa.
For me, painting this otter was a deeply symbolic act, as the otter represents a spiritual creature of water. In alchemy mysticism, the triangle is the symbol associated with water—pointing downward to represent the fluid, ever-changing nature of this element. Water, in both alchemical and spiritual contexts, is a powerful symbol of emotions, intuition, and the subconscious. It signifies cleansing, renewal, and transformation. Water flows, adapts, and nurtures, making it an essential element for life. In alchemical practices, the downward-pointing triangle is often associated with the feminine and the moon, reflecting the cyclical and intuitive nature of water. Through this artwork, I sought to honor the symbolic depth of water, allowing the otter to embody its spiritual qualities of fluidity and connection to the deeper, unseen forces of life.
Healers in The Sky,
Pentacles in My Heart
In October 2020, Lanette Parker-Blankenship presented a solo art exhibition at the Stephen Smith Fine Art Gallery in Fairfield, Alabama, showcasing her research through visual art and a performance centered on a Samhain ritual for educational purposes. A heartfelt thank you to everyone from the Pagan community who attended and participated in this immersive experience. Deep gratitude to Stephen Smith for providing the space to explore and celebrate this profound spiritual tradition.
Sacred Geometry: The Tetrahedron and Stonehenge Aligned Under the Constellations
Sacred Geometry: The Tetrahedron and Stonehenge Aligned Under the Constellations
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 24” x 48”
Description
The oil painting "Sacred Geometry: The Tetrahedron and Stonehenge Aligned Under the Constellations" explores the profound connection between geometry, ancient symbols, and the cosmos. Featuring the Tetrahedron, a symbol of creation and balance in sacred geometry, and Stonehenge, an ancient site linked to astronomical alignments, the piece reflects humanity's connection to the universe. The painting also introduces the thirteenth zodiac sign, Ophiuchus, symbolizing healing, wisdom, and balance.
Ophiuchus, the thirteenth zodiac sign, is often overlooked in traditional astrology, representing hidden cosmic knowledge that has been neglected or excluded from mainstream astrological systems. Known as the "Serpent Bearer," Ophiuchus symbolizes healing, balance, and wisdom, and its inclusion in the artwork encourages the audience to reconsider forgotten or suppressed truths about the universe. By focusing on this neglected sign, the painting invites viewers to explore deeper spiritual and intellectual connections between humanity and the cosmos, urging them to look beyond conventional wisdom and seek out the mysteries and ancient knowledge that lie hidden, offering the potential for greater understanding, growth, and enlightenment.
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Sacred Geometry: The Spirit That Hovers Over the Waters
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 18” x 24”Description
Sacred Geometry refers to the use of geometric shapes and patterns that hold symbolic and spiritual significance across cultures and religions. These forms—such as the Flower of Life, Metatron’s Cube, and the Golden Ratio—are believed to represent the fundamental structures of the universe, mirroring the patterns found in nature, space, and even human consciousness. Many spiritual traditions see these geometric forms as a bridge between the material and the divine, suggesting that they reveal hidden truths about existence and creation.A spirit hovering over the waters is a common motif in religious and spiritual texts, most notably in the Book of Genesis, where the Spirit of God moves over the face of the deep before creation begins. This imagery conveys a sense of divine presence, potential, and the moment before manifestation—when the unseen force of the divine is about to bring form and order out of chaos. Water itself often symbolizes the primordial void, emotions, the subconscious, and the unknown depths of existence.
Describing what a deity looks like in this dimension is inherently challenging because spiritual beings and higher-dimensional entities are often beyond human perception. Many religious and mystical traditions suggest that divine beings exist in a form beyond physical constraints, making it difficult to depict them accurately in three-dimensional space. Instead, they are often represented through symbols, light, energy, or anthropomorphic interpretations that help humans relate to their presence. Because they transcend time, space, and material form, their appearance may shift depending on the observer’s perception, cultural framework, and spiritual awareness.
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The Greater Key of Solomon: The First Pentacle of Venus
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 18” x 24”Description
The Greater Key of Solomon is a Renaissance-era grimoire attributed to King Solomon, containing instructions on ritual magic and sacred symbols called pentacles. These intricate designs merge sacred geometry, Hebrew inscriptions, and planetary influences to channel spiritual energies.The First Pentacle of Venus is a mystical symbol associated with love, attraction, and artistic inspiration, invoking the energy of the planet Venus. From an artist’s perspective, it represents a harmonious blend of geometry, calligraphy, and divine symbolism, embodying beauty and spiritual connection. Whether seen as a magical talisman or sacred art, it serves as both a tool for manifestation and an expression of cosmic creativity.
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Sacred Geometry: Meditation Mountain and the Power of the Square
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 18” x 24”Description
This concept merges the serenity of a meditative mountain landscape with the grounding energy of the square in sacred geometry. The square, representing structure, balance, and the four elements, symbolizes the solid foundation of the physical world. In this vision, the mountain symbolizes spiritual wisdom, offering a path toward enlightenment and inner strength.Meditation, at the heart of this design, is a transformative practice that teaches the principle of mind over matter. It helps individuals harness their willpower, control their thoughts, and cultivate inner peace. Through consistent meditation, one learns to quiet the mind, gaining the ability to separate from distractions and achieve clarity in thought. This focused state of awareness allows for the practice of manifestation—bringing desired outcomes into reality by aligning thoughts, intentions, and emotions with higher consciousness.
The square’s energy, representing stability, mirrors the mental clarity and balance achieved through meditation, reinforcing the connection between a controlled mind and the power to shape reality. By engaging in meditation, we develop the ability to strengthen our willpower, direct our energy, and manifest our deepest desires, bringing the wisdom of sacred geometry into our lives.
As we reach the apex of this journey, we look toward the moon—an ancient symbol of intuition, cycles, and the subconscious. The moon reflects the ebb and flow of our inner states, its phases serving as metaphors for our own emotional cycles, growth, and transformation. Just as the moon waxes and wanes, meditation helps us navigate the fluctuations of our mind and emotions, guiding us toward balance and enlightenment. The moon invites reflection, reminding us that through both light and darkness, we can find the clarity to manifest our true will and embrace our full potential.
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The Witch’s Forbidden Secrets
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 16” x 20”Description
The Witch’s Forbidden Secrets depicts a powerful image of a beautiful woman whose enigmatic presence draws the viewer in. Her face, partially painted in deep, vibrant red, symbolizes an ancient connection to mysticism and spiritual transformation. This red hue evokes the sacred energy of ritual and power, inspired by the mystical traditions of the lost tribes of Israel, whose ancient knowledge and sacred symbols have been passed down through generations, shrouded in secrecy. The red paint on her face could represent both the blood of sacrifice and the life force that connects her to both the earth and the heavens, drawing from these sacred energies to transcend the physical world.The crescent moon, glowing softly above her, adds a deeper layer of meaning to the painting. As a symbol, the crescent moon represents the cyclical nature of life, growth, and transformation. Its delicate arc reflects the ebb and flow of energy, emotions, and intuition, much like the phases of the moon itself. The crescent, in particular, symbolizes new beginnings, the unfolding of potential, and the quiet power of creation that is still in its early stages. In many spiritual traditions, the moon is revered for its strong connection to the feminine, intuition, and the natural cycles of the earth. The crescent moon above her serves as a reminder of her ongoing spiritual evolution—an eternal process of shedding the old and embracing the new, of continuous renewal and inner transformation. It suggests that, much like the moon, she is in a constant state of flux, a being forever in tune with the cosmic rhythms of change and rebirth.
Marking the middle of the head, specifically the area around the third eye, is a deeply symbolic gesture. The third eye, often referred to as the ajna in Eastern philosophy, represents a place of heightened perception and spiritual insight, transcending the physical senses. The mark here signifies a direct connection to higher consciousness, intuition, and the ability to perceive beyond the ordinary. It suggests that the woman in the painting is not only beautiful in form but possesses an inner vision—one that sees past the material world into the deeper, hidden realms of existence. The third eye is often considered the gateway to spiritual awakening, where truth, knowledge, and enlightenment reside. In this depiction, the focus on this area underscores her mastery of both physical beauty and spiritual wisdom, as well as her alignment with ancient, mystical teachings passed down from a time of great mystery and power.
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Sacred Geometry: The Mystical Path of the Tree of Life
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 30” x 60”Description
Sacred Geometry: The Mystical Path of the Tree of Life is a painting that represents the spiritual journey of enlightenment, symbolized by the Tree of Life in Kabbalistic mysticism. The artwork depicts the intricate, geometric structure of the Tree of Life, with its ten Sefirot (divine emanations) connected by luminous lines, illustrating the interconnectedness of all creation. A figure ascends through these spheres, representing the soul's journey toward divine understanding.In Kabbalah, the Tree of Life is a key symbol that shows the path from the material world to spiritual enlightenment, with each Sefira embodying different aspects of God. Kabbalah is an ancient form of Jewish mysticism that seeks to understand the hidden nature of the universe and the soul's connection to the divine. The Tree of Life serves as a spiritual guide, offering insights into the divine order of the universe and how one can transcend the physical world to unite with the infinite divine light. This journey represents a profound path of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and divine connection.
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Starborn Essence
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Wood Panel, 20” x 24”Description
The painting Starborn Essence features a beautiful blue-skinned woman, a celestial star seed from the future born into a human body in the past. Her eyes gleam with the wisdom of future worlds, and her serene expression suggests a connection to both the divine and the unknown. She represents a soul carrying memories of the future, meant to inspire us to transcend the limits of time and space, urging humanity to push beyond current boundaries.Her arrival is symbolic of a cosmic event, one where the heavens and stars align, creating the conditions necessary for her descent. In ancient thought, such alignments were seen as divine will manifesting, allowing beings like this celestial woman to enter the human realm. This event underscores the interconnectedness of the cosmos and humanity’s potential for growth and exploration.
In Jewish mysticism, beings like her would be considered angels—divine messengers sent to guide humanity. These celestial beings carry sacred knowledge from higher realms, intended to awaken and inspire people. This woman, as an angelic figure, brings knowledge not just for secular innovation but for spiritual enlightenment, urging humanity to recognize its infinite potential and the divine forces that shape our destiny.
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The Throne of Eternal Forces
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 16” x 20”Description
The Ankh, or Key of Life, is a powerful ancient Egyptian symbol representing eternal life, immortality, and divine protection. In a painting inspired by this concept, a celestial being must sit upon a majestic throne, anointed with divine authority, overseeing the Earth. The figure is depicted in a serene, ethereal form, surrounded by a pentagram that represents the five elemental spirits—earth, water, fire, air, and spirit—that provide the being with immense power and influence. These elements, connected in harmony, amplify the being's connection to the material and spiritual realms.Above this figure, the Tetragrammaton, the four-letter name of God (YHWH), is inscribed in radiant light, symbolizing the divine spiritual powers that govern existence. The Tetragrammaton is a sacred representation of the ineffable name of God, believed to encapsulate the primal forces of creation and the divine order that underpins the universe. This divine being, empowered by the elements and the spiritual essence of the Tetragrammaton, watches over humanity, guiding and protecting the balance of the Earth. The painting captures the essence of cosmic order, where divine protection and the forces of nature work in harmony to maintain the equilibrium of existence.
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Sacred Geometry: Circle of Creation and Cherry Blossoms
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 16” x 20”Description
Sacred Geometry: Circle of Creation and Cherry Blossoms symbolize the unity and cyclical nature of life through the use of the circle, a sacred shape in geometry that represents wholeness, eternity, and interconnectedness. The circle is a symbol of the infinite flow of creation, death, and rebirth. The cherry blossoms contrast this by symbolizing the beauty of impermanence, highlighting the fleeting nature of life. Together, the circle and blossoms embody the balance between eternal forces and the transient beauty of existence.The sacred circle in mysticism represents wholeness and divine order, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all things and the continuous cycle of creation and transformation. It is seen as a boundary that encompasses both the physical and metaphysical realms, symbolizing protection and completeness. The painting invites viewers to reflect on the transitory nature of life while recognizing the larger, eternal forces at play, encouraging a deeper understanding of life’s purpose and the unseen energies that govern it.
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Whispers of the Unbeliever: The Flames of Transformation
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 16” x 20”Description
Whispers of the Unbeliever depicts a man trapped in disbelief, rejecting witchcraft and the supernatural. His focused gaze on the material world reflects his closed-off perspective. Surrounding him are faint, mystical elements—whispers of magic, flickers of light, and shadowy figures—representing the unseen world he cannot perceive.The painting also incorporates fire, symbolizing both destruction and transformation. As the man remains entrenched in his skepticism, the fire begins to encircle him, igniting his body—an embodiment of how his refusal to embrace the unseen and imaginative leads to failure. The fire, though painful, is also a force of purification, capable of burning away his rigid beliefs, forcing him to confront the deeper mysteries of life.
This fire represents the tension between reason and spiritual enlightenment. By rejecting the unknown, the man is figuratively consumed by the flames of his own doubt, trapped in a cycle of materialism and the worship of money. The fire, ultimately, becomes the catalyst for his potential transformation. It’s through embracing the unseen, much like fire illuminates in the dark, that one can transcend physical limitations, allowing for true spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Sacred Geometry: Runes of Death, Rebirth, and Resurrection at Stonehenge
Sacred Geometry: Runes of Death, Rebirth, and Resurrection at Stonehenge
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Oil on Canvas, 24” x 48”
Description
Sacred Geometry: Runes of Death, Rebirth, and Resurrection at Stonehenge is a powerful and transformative painting that symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and spiritual renewal. In this visual narrative, a woman rises from the ashes, a metaphor for rebirth after destruction. Her figure is depicted as a shadow of her former self, a fleeting reminder of the past, as she undergoes a profound transformation. This imagery captures the essence of death and renewal, showing her emerging as a new woman, her soul lifting above Stonehenge, symbolizing her spiritual elevation.
The ancient Runes, which she hovers over, are a central element in the painting. Runes are symbols from ancient Germanic and Norse traditions, often used for divination, magic, and spiritual communication. Each Rune has its own symbolic meaning, tied to natural forces, life cycles, and cosmic principles. They are considered a bridge between the material world and the spiritual realms, and their importance within mysticism lies in their ability to unlock hidden knowledge and connect individuals to the divine and the forces of nature.
In this painting, the Runes are not merely decorative but serve as a map for the woman’s spiritual journey. As she rises, the Runes are positioned beneath her, suggesting that the path of transformation is deeply intertwined with ancient wisdom and sacred geometry. The alignment of her soul with the Runes reflects a return to primal, cosmic truths, where the cycles of life, death, and resurrection are understood not as linear, but as interwoven, eternal processes.
The connection between Stonehenge and the Runes is also symbolic. Stonehenge itself is a site steeped in mystery and ancient spiritual significance, believed to be an intersection of cosmic energy. The Runes, etched into the Earth, further activate this sacred space, imbuing it with mystical power. The woman’s rise above the stones and the Runes marks her spiritual awakening, as she transcends the material world and reconnects with the deeper forces of the universe.
In essence, the painting conveys the profound idea that spiritual rebirth requires a connection to ancient wisdom—represented by the Runes—and the recognition that life’s cyclical nature is a process of continuous growth and transformation. Through this lens, death is not an end, but a necessary step toward a new beginning, where the soul, empowered by ancient symbols, is reborn into a higher state of existence.
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Shadows: The Spell to Create the Doppelgänger
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Mixed Media: Acrylic Paint, Marker, Colored Pencil, Charcoal, Ink on Paper, 42” x 48”Description
In this particular drawing, the focus is on the development of two doppelgänger souls alongside one true essence. The doppelgängers are spiritual reflections, crafted to shield the soul from the "great tester" that challenges its path. These shadow souls are not physical copies but ethereal counterparts, created to mislead and distract the tester long enough for the true essence of the soul to evolve.However, the time comes when the doppelgängers must die. For the great tester to find the true essence, the shadows must fade by the angel’s hand. Only once the doppelgängers are no longer present can the tester locate the genuine soul that the angel seeks. The destruction of the shadow selves is a necessary step—allowing the true essence to emerge and face the ultimate test, moving toward enlightenment.
This artwork symbolizes the delicate moment when the soul's doppelgängers fade, and the true essence steps forward, ready to meet the great tester and continue its journey toward spiritual transcendence.
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Sacred Geometry: The Angel of Light and Darkness
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Mixed Media: Graphite, Colored Pencil, Charcoal, Transfer on Paper, Ink, 22” x 30”Description
In this drawing, the Angel of Light, representing Lucifer in Jewish mysticism, is depicted not as a fallen figure, but as an ethereal being of divine purpose, illuminating the path of transformation. Unlike traditional Christian interpretations, where Lucifer is seen as the embodiment of evil, Jewish mysticism presents him as an angel of illumination and transformation. His role is not to lead souls astray, but to test and refine them, pushing them toward spiritual growth. In the artwork, the angel’s radiant form exudes a calming yet challenging aura, symbolizing the trials he brings to help individuals grow closer to the divine.The drawing features sacred geometry patterns—interconnected lines and shapes representing the divine order of the universe and the balance between light and shadow. These geometric symbols illustrate the cosmic structure that Lucifer embodies as he facilitates spiritual ascent through his tests. Lucifer’s role as a tester is central in Kabbalistic teachings, where the trials he provides are seen as opportunities for growth and transformation. The angel’s presence in the artistic expression represents a force of divine illumination, guiding the soul to confront its limitations and refine its character.
Lucifer’s presence is not one of destruction, but of divine challenge, pushing the soul toward greater self-realization and spiritual enlightenment. His role aligns with the concept of Sitra Achra, the “other side” in Kabbalah, where forces of opposition to the divine exist not as inherently evil, but as necessary tests for growth. In this piece, Lucifer is portrayed as an instrument of divine will, bringing necessary trials that lead to spiritual elevation and self-awareness.
The angel is surrounded by a subtle image of a halo; this is a soul in various stages of transformation, symbolizing the process of overcoming obstacles and achieving spiritual enlightenment. The artwork emphasizes that spiritual growth is often born from adversity, and through these divine tests, individuals can become closer to their higher purpose. This drawing captures the essence of Lucifer’s true role: a complex figure of illumination, guiding souls through difficult challenges and refining them for a greater connection to the divine.
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Spiritual High Priestess: Jewish Mysticism and the Forbidden Gender
by Lanette Parker - Blankenship M.F.A.
2020
Mixed Media: Acrylic Paint, Marker, Colored Pencil, Charcoal, Ink on Paper, 42” x 48”Description
In the ancient world, largely forgotten to time, the civilizations of Sumer, Babylon, Assyria, and Egypt left behind the earliest records of the Jewish people. They were once a powerful civilization, rich in mystical traditions and spiritual practices, believed to be endowed with supernatural abilities fueled by their Deity. With significant Egyptian influence, these ancient people integrated esoteric knowledge and ritual practices from Egypt into their own culture, creating a powerful civilization that was once seen as untouchable. Their advanced society thrived under divine favor, but over time, it became lost to history, leaving only fragmented records and echoes preserved in secret societies that remain hidden from the public eye. These societies, where only men were permitted to walk, continue to protect truths that are obscured from the broader world.Among their most sacred structures was a grand temple dedicated to their Deity, where only men were allowed to perform rituals. This practice, reminiscent of certain modern teachings such as Freemasonry, where women are historically excluded from ritualistic roles, mirrors these ancient traditions (though contemporary perspectives are evolving). Egyptian influences are seen here too, as their mystical rites, particularly those around initiation and spiritual ascension, likely shaped the traditions of this ancient Jewish mystical civilization.
In this artwork, the narrative centers on a woman descended from an ancient bloodline tied to both the Machiavellian family and an ancient tribe of Israel. Born female, she was forced to venture into the depths of darkness to uncover her spiritual truth. The kindness of the Pagan community, who preserved the teachings of the Kabbalah, played a key role in helping her access this hidden knowledge, allowing her to awaken her spiritual power and wisdom. The Egyptian influence on these teachings gave her the tools to reclaim what was once withheld from women. This artwork captures her struggle and ultimate triumph, symbolizing the reclamation of sacred knowledge and her rightful place within an ancient lineage long concealed from the feminine. To survive her trials, she became a spiritual warrior.
Research
The Tetragrammaton Pentagram, a medieval and ancient symbol, serves as a representation of the translated name for the Hebrew God. The Tetragrammaton, a four-letter biblical designation for the God of Israel, is linguistically linked to the root meaning "to be." Some interpretations posit the original sense as "He-Who-Is" or "He who brings being into being." In metaphysical contexts, the Tetragrammaton is construed as a mathematical equation encapsulating the essence of the universe, presented in a pentagram format wherein each point corresponds to an elemental aspect: earth, air, fire, water, and spirit.The magical utilization of the Tetragrammaton finds historical roots in Greek pagan papyri, and echoes of its significance resonate in the Toledoth Jesu traditions, wherein Jesus is accused of sorcery involving the Tetragrammaton. This research aims to delve into the historical, linguistic, and metaphysical dimensions of the Tetragrammaton Pentagram, exploring its multifaceted role as a symbol, both within the context of religious tradition and its subsequent influence in magical practices across different cultural and historical epochs.The Tetragrammaton is a term referring to the four Hebrew letters that make up the name of the God of Israel in the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament). The four letters are Yod (Y), He (H), Vav (V), and He (H), usually transliterated as YHWH. Due to the sacred nature of the name, its exact pronunciation is not definitively known, as ancient Hebrew was written without vowel markings.In Jewish tradition, the Tetragrammaton is considered the holiest name of God, and it is often treated with great reverence. The significance of the name is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God reveals it to Moses at the burning bush and declares, "I am that I am" (Exodus 3:14).The Tetragrammaton has been a subject of scholarly, theological, and mystical exploration throughout history. In various religious and mystical traditions, it is associated with profound metaphysical meanings and considered a symbol of the divine essence. It has also been the focus of discussion and interpretation in different cultural and religious contexts.