JOURNEY THROUGH FIRE by artist Ulla Anobile

Paper mâché, acrylics, 9 3/4" x 8"

The element of fire can be either destructive or, if endured, cleansing. In the psyche, the destructive fire expresses itself in bursts of rage or other affect. The fire of extreme pain or emotional suffering can be cleansing, if met with an unrelenting awareness.

The Raven in most mythologies is a mediator between realms; in some legends, the White Raven is associated with the creation of the world, and with fire.

Here, the Raven's wings serve as sails on the journey through the dark night sea, as fire burns both above and below.

In the I Ching, the Chinese Book of Changes, the hexagram 'Fire in the Lake' means revolution, either inner or outer: a profound change in attitude or circumstance.

The tree here provides strength, and a connection to the traveler's inner nature. The key signals guidance, the opening of doors into the unknown.