Introspection- Cancer, Octopus & Seagrass

Cancer- June 21- July 22
Animal- Octopus
Plant- Sea Grass
Planet- Mercury
Element-Water
Number- 4

Astrology & Geometry: Cancers are considered shy, security- conscious, protective, and emotional. Cancer is the fourth sign of the Western Zodiac, associated with home life, childhood, parental relationships and parenthood. The fourth house is represented by the four-sided diamond around the octopus and the four squares in the painting.

Zoology: Octopuses are generally shy and rarely engage in aggressive behavior. Instead rely on their use of camouflage and ink clouds to escape from predators. Some species such as the Cuttlefish are able to change their skin to iridescent colors that simulate a light display for mating & defense purposes. They are extremely intelligent and can solve puzzles and use tools.

Folklore: Despite the animal’s shy behavior, octopus-like creatures appear in cross cultural folklore as aggressive monsters. Octopuses feature in Norwegian folklore of the Kraken, Japanese Ainu tales of Akkorokamui, the Hawaiian creation song “Kumulipo,” and may have been the inspiration for the Greek gorgon Medusa. They have been depicted in Minoan art since 1500 BCE.

Botany: Sea grasses evolved from terrestrial plants that migrated back in to the ocean. They are an important part of the ocean ecosystem, serving as a giant water filter, food source, and shelter for octopuses and other marine life. Humans have used sea grasses as food, fertilizer, furniture, roofing & insulation.

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

2020, 8x10", Acrylic paint, collaged fabric, ink, embroidery floss & nails.