Deconstruction- Scorpio, Snake & Yew Tree

Scorpio- October 23- November 21
Animal- Snake
Plant- Yew Tree
Planet- Pluto
Element- Water
Number- 8

Astrology & Geometry: Scorpio is a sign associated with transformation, determination, desires, and retribution. Scorpio is the eighth house of the Western Zodiac, representing shared resources, sex, and death. The eighth house is represented by the eight-pointed star and the octagonal shapes included in the painting.

The Snake is the sixth sign of the Eastern Zodiac and applies to those born in 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001 & 2013.

In Celtic Astrology the Snake is associated with the sign of Ash for those born February 18- March 17.

Herbalism & Magic: The Yew tree is highly poisonous and consuming its berries or foliage can result in death. Yew trees were planted around cemeteries and sacred sites throughout the British Isles. Their toxicity often linked the tree with the afterlife, and it ensured that livestock and scavengers would stay away from the areas in which the tree grew, protecting the land and graves around it. Yews trees tend to live at least 400 years, and some yew trees are suspected to be over 2,000 years old.

While potentially deadly, the toxins in the yew can promote healing in some circumstances. Yew toxin has been synthesized into chemotherapy drugs that can help combat cancer.*

Zoology: Since snakes shed their skins, they are often associated with renewal and the removal of old limitations. Some species of snake will shed their skin in a single piece, starting with the face and ending at the tail. This way the snake can come face-to-face with its old skin.

*Herbalism information disclaimer- Never take medical advice from a painting.

2019, 8x10", Acrylic paint, collaged fabric, ink, embroidery floss & nails.