My sculpture of Aphrodite for Beltane celebration of the Divine Feminine

Beauty from the waters, the ocean of Aphrodite, the rivers streams and lakes for Oshun.

Some beautiful women gathered to celebrate the Beltane festival of the beginning of May here in Black Mountain.  And we danced, and leaped a small bonfire, (indoor style in a cauldron) and sang songs, and made up our own rhythms while we worked on a flower mandala (a variation of a Peruvian Despacho.)

We had fun! But the ritual was a sacred dance so photos will not be posted of the participants.

we did each wear a crown of flowers!

The almost finished Mandala of flowers, sweets (that's the candy) and various herbs.

Thanks so much for the great sharing of skills and ideas, and participation of everyone in their chosen activities!

 The unfinished version of Aphrodite went to the ritual on Sunday.  She was glazed on Monday, so will go in the kiln sometime this week.

Here are a couple of shots as glaze was being applied. The whole reason for glaze being applied, is to hopefully diminish a crack in the base over on the side behind her foot.  So fingers and toes are crossed.  I usually prefer to just use a thin black stain to highlight the play of light on forms.

I added some white highlights to the waves as she rises from the ocean, and to her hair, so hopefully it won't been such dark brown.  The sand is Nutmeg colored, which will possibly hide the crack.  But even then, being sculptural, there's lots that can be done with acrylics...oh no, did I say that out loud!