Artist Statement
With two different versions of Athena’s story the Roman tale and the Ancient Greek tale. Where the Roman story tells of a woman full of envy, spite and jealousy and the Ancient Greek story of the protector full of compassion and of rational manner.
Athena is the daughter of Zeus and her mother was Metis. So with a long long story short, Zeus swallowed Metis alive while pregnant with Athena. In fear that any child would someday over-rule him. Zeus started experiencing headaches with no explanation as to why. After Hephaestus examined his head, in conclusion there was something trapped inside and with an axe. ( maybe a gods scalpel ) Hephaestus cleaved his head open where Athena appeared fully grown and covered in Armor from head to toe, As for Zeus he gazed upon his daughter with pride and honor.
Athena’s two main stories are of Arachne and Medusa. is of heroic tale or a villain, Where the Roman version she is held by jealousy and emotion, were Medusa is punished for being raped by Poseidon in Athena’s temple and Arachne is punished for beating Athena in a weaving contest. Were the Ancient Greek version of Athena, She was a far and just wise protector. Athena transforms Medusa into the form she is well known for today, so she could protect herself to assure no man would ever have his way with her again. Arachne when she completed her tapestry in the contest against Athena. It was actually Zeus that punished Arachne for she was not allowed to weave again. as Athena was well known for her Artistic flair and craft. Arachne disgraced and not being able to weave she attempts suicide were Athena takes pity on her and transforms her into the first ever spider were she can forever weave beautiful patterns just like she did in her tapestries.
Athena Owl as her symbol, Why the owl you ask, Athena’s owl was a young maiden call Nyktimene, ( don’t ask me to say her name out aloud ) Nyktimene was raped by her father, so she fled to the woods and hid herself in shame. Where Athena in Sympathy transformed the girl into an owl and appointed her as her animal familiar. An Owl represents wisdom alertness symbolizing Athena’s insight and critical thinking
Athena’s Flower and Tree is the olive tree. Athena gift to her proteges that was planted on the sacred rock of Acropolis. Athena’s Spiritual Flower is the Peony Common peony meaning includes prosperity, good fortune, honor and compassion.
Athena’s Colours are of gold and yellow which resembles the gleaming sun and metal on her Armor and her proteges said her beauty was like the sun.
Athena’s gemstone is Lapis Lazuli is of wisdom, intuition and truth Lapis Lazuli has the healing power if anyone wants to step into their authentic self.
