Cathy Spivey Mendola
"Shaman Spirit Mask"
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| (Photos by Patrick Fraser) |
My spirit mask is loosely based on a Native American Shaman spirit mask. I have attempted to capture the essence of my spirit through research of various astrological charts and also things with which I feel a deep connection.
I was born under the sign of the owl according to Native American astrology and my clan animal is the thunderbird. Celtic astrology has my sign as the falcon or hawk. Owls are symbols of wisdom, adventure and independence. Thunderbirds, eagles and hawks are all animals associated with spirit, creativity and intention. It is also interesting that according to western astrology my ruling planet is Jupiter, which is symbolized by the eagle. So, it is obvious that birds of prey are a major influence on my spirit. Although birds of prey hunt & feed on other animals, they are characterized by their keen vision and their power.
My Native American horoscope suggests my colors are gold and black and my minerals are obsidian and turquoise. I painted my mask black and reddish brown, the colors of obsidian. I have also used black leather, turquoise and black beads and just a touch of gold using brass beads.
Yoga is a major part of my life these days. It has provoked a fascination with chakras and their impact on our life. The top spiral portion of a conch shell is embedded in the forehead or ‘third eye’ area. Hindu tradition says the ‘third eye’ (Ajna in Sanskrit) is our 6th chakra and translates to ‘command’. It is associated with our intuition and intellect. I would like to think that I have always been quite intuitive and intellect reinforces the wisdom of the owl. The spiral of the shell symbolizes awareness, connection, and balance-all the things I am learning through yoga.
The crown of seashells signifies my love of the ocean and seashore. Crowns are also associated with the planet Jupiter. A carved bone owl is the centerpiece on my ‘protective’ breastplate/necklace. Various elements adorn my mask: feathers to symbolize all the birds I associate with; real horsehair braids dangling from either side of her head-because I love their power and grace; and a selection of charms chosen to represent a few other things that are dear to me.
As you can see my spirit is multi-faceted with a deep connection to the animal kingdom and nature.