Unveiling the Celtic Symbolism of the Egret

In this blog, I will share with you the meaning behind my most recent painting, where an egret landed beside the mandala...it was one of those impulsive moments when and idea simply drops in from 'nowhere' and I just had to listen! It seemed like a risk to paint over part of this very intricate mandala. The background of the painting began as orange as you will see below in the progress photos. And again I felt to paint over it, but flecks of the orange show through and it does something really beautiful to the blues and teals that is impossible to catch in a photograph. So there is a fire energy beneath the watery energy. I had been seeing herons and swans regularly on my morning walks, and that may have been an influence, but I knew that it had to be the egret specifically that needed to be birthed. 

The Celts were a civilization deeply connected to nature, and they assigned great significance to various animals and birds. One such bird that held a special place in Celtic folklore and symbolism is the elegant egret. Renowned for its grace, beauty, and elusive nature, the egret carries rich cultural meaning within Celtic mythology. 

The egret's slender form, snowy white plumage, and majestic flight made it an embodiment of grace and elegance for the Celts. They viewed the egret as a symbol of purity, poise, and balance. Its serene presence in its natural surroundings inspired them to seek harmony in their own lives and relationships.

The egret's preference for wetlands and its association with water made it a potent symbol in Celtic mythology. Water is considered a portal to the Otherworld, a realm inhabited by gods, spirits, and mystical beings. The egret, as a bird that dwells in the liminal spaces between land and water, is believed to possess the ability to traverse between worlds, acting as a guide and messenger between realms.

The Celts revered the egret for its keen observational skills and acute perception. They considered it a symbol of wisdom and intuition, attributing the bird with the ability to see beyond the ordinary and perceive hidden truths. It was believed that the egret could help humans develop their own intuitive abilities and tap into their inner wisdom. And that is something that I am always encouraging people to do! Intuition is a powerful thing...an inner gps that we all have, though many have been separated from it through our culture of materialism. Meditating on this piece will help reconnect you to that liminal space and that inner knowing that is your power.

The egret's life cycle, marked by its stunning plumage changes during breeding season, fascinated the Celts. They saw in this transformation a powerful metaphor for personal growth, change, and rebirth. The egret's ability to shed its old feathers and don a new appearance symbolized the potential for transformation and the cycle of life.

The egret was also often regarded as a spiritual guide and protector. The Celts believed that the bird's ethereal presence signaled divine guidance and assistance on one's spiritual journey. It was seen as a symbol of divine protection, helping ward off negative energies and bringing about spiritual awakening and enlightenment.

I am very glad that I heeded that momentary thought that flew in to my mind, an idea breathed in during the creative process. The egret's powerful symbolism in Celtic culture reflects the a deep connection with nature and a profound understanding of the spiritual dimensions of the world. As a symbol of grace, purity, wisdom, and transformation, the egret held great significance for the Celts, guiding them on their spiritual paths and inspiring them to seek harmony with the natural world. Today, the egret's symbolism continues to captivate and inspire people who are drawn to its profound spiritual message and the timeless wisdom it represents.

This painting measures 100cm x 100cm, acrylic paint and metallic pens on deep edged Italian canvas. It is available for sale and costs €1800. I am always open to people paying in instalments if that works better for you. Email me if you would like to give this painting a forever home where I hope that it will bring every blessing and inspiration. I will have limited edition prints of this piece in a month or two.