Epona Helen Nelson-Reed

The composition presents a central female figure dominating the vertical format, her gaze directed forward with a solemn intensity. Her face is rendered with delicate features and a pale complexion, accentuated by dark circles beneath the eyes, suggesting weariness or perhaps profound introspection. A crown of elaborate design sits upon her head, its golden hue contrasting sharply against the predominantly cool tones of the surrounding palette. The crescent moon positioned above her further reinforces an association with lunar symbolism and feminine power.
The figure is enveloped in a cascade of dark, flowing hair and drapery, which swirl around her form like tendrils or waves. These elements are executed using intricate patterns and layered washes of blue, indigo, and violet, creating a sense of depth and movement. A garland of orange blossoms encircles her neck, providing a vibrant counterpoint to the cooler colors and potentially signifying fertility or renewal.
Below the figure’s chest, a stylized equine form is depicted in shimmering silver tones. The animal appears almost ethereal, its presence suggesting a connection between the woman and the natural world, specifically with horses – symbols of freedom, grace, and wildness. To the lower right, a phoenix rises from what seems to be flames, rendered in fiery oranges and yellows. This motif introduces themes of rebirth, transformation, and overcoming adversity.
The overall effect is one of mystical significance. The artist has employed a rich symbolic language – the moon, the horse, the phoenix – to evoke notions of feminine divinity, cyclical renewal, and resilience. The subdued color palette and the figure’s contemplative expression contribute to an atmosphere of quiet reverence and introspection. The work seems to explore themes of inner strength, spiritual awakening, and the enduring power of nature.