Symbology Guide Series: Beltane Shrine
The Symbology Guide Series is an up-close look into the intentionally chosen iconography and symbolic features that make each altar shrine I craft a unique portal piece. Here we will dissect the details and explore the imagery of Beltane: Flight + Flame.
This shrine symbolizes initiation by ignition — baptism by fire. A yellow triangle boarder set against a dusty lilac frame accentuate the flame backdrop and sharp, directive energy. Punctuated by images of bright florals and purple crystal points. Let’s look at the signature symbolism seared into this piece.
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Flame
The fire element provides heat, light and stokes our passions. It kindles possibility, represents discovery and demands respect for it holds the power of both creation and destruction. Fire’s magic changes our lives and transmutes our fears. This piece was completed around the Beltane season which helped inform it’s name and purpose. Beltane is a traditional Celtic fire festival representing the mid-point between spring Equinox and summer Solstice.
Triangle Border
This vibrant and tribal pattern surrounds the shrine with the pointed energy of a bright flame. Although this design is upright, the inverted triangle signifies the yoni or female trinity of Virgin-Mother-Crone.
Anemone Flowers
A Greek translation of this flower is “daughter of the wind”. As mentioned in the Flame section, this shrine represents the crossroads between flight/air + flame/fire. This balances the symbolism scale back toward wind. The flower carries various significance in different cultures but most notably suggests anticipation. Other times, it may portray condolences of death, tragic love or romantic passion.
Amethyst Crystal Points
Known as a stone for sobriety, amethyst has a tranquil effect. It helps to clear what’s “unproductive and unkind”. Melody’s reference of crystals (Love is In the Earth, A Kalidescope of Crystals) states that amethyst “allows for the integration of cause and effect”. Any crystal in a point formation gathers and organizes the energy in a singular direction.
Turkey Tail Feather
The pinnacle of this shrine is adorned with a turkey tail feather steeple. Feathers evoke the realm of air, east, and the wind due to their association with bird flight. Turkey feathers specifically may represent abundance, wild wisdom, spirit connection and pride.
Beltane: Flight + Flame is pictured above in full, standing tall and inviting your spirit to rise upward like the awakening fertility of the season.