When I started this series, I never imagined how many people would be inspired by my pandemic art binge. I needed an outlet during COVID, (and an AP art topic.) My goal was to use a unique lens to raise awareness about events in our world and share the importance of activism, diversity, and my love of Greek mythology. If you’re familiar with the Greek pantheon, you’ll notice that my gods are often paired with issues that don’t conform to their mythos or even contradicts their stories. Some people believe the Greek gods were created to explain what was once “unexplainable,” and to make sense of things that the people of Ancient Greece experienced. In a way, I’ve used them in a similar way - to start conversations about modern-day issues and current events.
I wanted to make these massive deities feel human. I like to imagine Poseidon cleaning up beaches with volunteer groups, Ares advocating for safer schools and stricter gun laws, Aphrodite celebrating all forms of beauty, and Hades demanding police reform. The gods have white eyes to remain emotionless and allow the viewer a blank slate to interpret the piece. The stories that these versions of the gods tell may make you angry, sad, hopeful, inspired, or spark a sense of empowerment.
I wanted to make these massive deities feel human. I like to imagine Poseidon cleaning up beaches with volunteer groups, Ares advocating for safer schools and stricter gun laws, Aphrodite celebrating all forms of beauty, and Hades demanding police reform. The gods have white eyes to remain emotionless and allow the viewer a blank slate to interpret the piece. The stories that these versions of the gods tell may make you angry, sad, hopeful, inspired, or spark a sense of empowerment.
I want this series to start conversations about how we view the world we live in, what’s important to us, and how we can change things. If the gods make you feel something, I urge you to act. Donate to charity, volunteer, or spread awareness. Even if you don’t think what you do makes a difference, it does.
Thank you for believing in me and for years of encouragement and support. I couldn’t have done it without you. This series is bigger than me, it’s about real issues that impact real people. I’m so thankful to be on this journey with you, and I’m honored to help tell the stories of so many people and of faith in humankind.
The Old Gods Are Not Dead,
They’re very much alive in you and me.
-Natalie
Thank you for believing in me and for years of encouragement and support. I couldn’t have done it without you. This series is bigger than me, it’s about real issues that impact real people. I’m so thankful to be on this journey with you, and I’m honored to help tell the stories of so many people and of faith in humankind.
The Old Gods Are Not Dead,
They’re very much alive in you and me.
-Natalie
