The Language of Birds by Jennifer Martin
Join us for the launch of ‘The Language of Birds’ with champagne and cupcakes as part of Vogue Fashion’s Night Out.
Friday 26th August, 5-7pm
RSVP info@egetal.com.au
Jennifer Martin has been wandering through the richly symbolic landscape of the alchemists. A mysterious realm where they speak the language of birds, where the black sun beckons you to look deep into its heart and where that which is below is as that which is above. The result of her exploration is a collection of new jewellery that attempts to capture the essence of the transformational stages of alchemy.
The collection’s title, ‘The Language of Birds’, refers to not only the symbolic style of writing that the alchemists developed to communicate with each other, but also the use of birds to symbolise the different stages of alchemical work.
The three phases of alchemy (black, white and red) are represented as birds contained within vessels. The birds are symbols and guides to carry through the process.
The Black phase is calcination (heating a substance), symbolised by the crow. This is the beginning stage of transformation, looking into the dark or shadow side, burning up old ideas, dissolving your pain through tears. The transformation of the negative.
The White Phase is transformation. After the black phase unuseful psychic structures, beliefs, and habits have been broken down. The dark night gives way to a bright dawn, symbolized by the dove, swan and snow goose. The essence of the true self is revealed.
The Red Phase is fermentation. The final phase. The peacock spreads its tail, a rainbow of colours appear. Powerful energies are released. The merging of soul and spirit. A sacred marriage occurs. You meet the divine self.
‘The Language of Birds’ arrives at e.g.etal from Monday 22 August, 2016. A launch event will be held on Friday 26th August from 5-7pm. Enjoy a glass of champagne, cupcakes from Bakes by Jean, and meet the artist.
