Patterns by fallingSarah on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

The idea for this piece came to me while I was doing some research about patterns in general. I've always been fascinated by patterns, both man-made and those found in the natural world. While I was reading up on the subject I came across another definition of a pattern. It's a devotional pattern; a pilgrimage to a sacred place. In Irish Roman Catholicism it is associated with patron saints, however it is believed to be an even older, pre-Christian tradition. Pilgrims journey to a sacred site, often a holy well or spring. One type of holy spring is known as a Clootie well, a spring or well with a hawthorn tree nearby. These wells are usually associated with healing and pilgrims will circle around the well in a clockwise direction, following the path of the sun and many leave a small offering of "clooties"or strips of fabric on the branches of the trees. It is believed that as the cloth disintegrates the ailment of the afflicted with disappear. Other objects can be found as well, ribbons, charms, religious icons, even clothing.

I incorporated the symbol of the snake, because it represents movement, healing and our connection to the earth. The hummingbirds are a symbol of pilgrimage.

Pen, Ink Pencils, Graphite