Awakening
Artist: Verna du Toit
Medium : Digitally transformed
Limited Edition: 50
Editions | Size in cm | Med | Available on | Shipping |
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20 | 60 x 60 | Digitally transformed | Archival print | tube |
15 | 80 x 80 | Digitally transformed | Archival print | tube |
10 | 100 x 100 | Digitally transformed | Archival print | tube |
5 | 120 x 120 | Digitally transformed | Archival print | tube |
Awakening:
During moments of profound introspection, I find myself submerged in a surreal visualization. Delving into the recesses of my consciousness, I witness my body disintegrating and melding into liquid. Countless cells merge into a fluid, encapsulating my entire existence. From this liquid, a new face emerges. While I maintain the physical semblance of my former self, I sense a profound transformation within. The scars of past trials now lend character and depth to my narrative.
As I observe myself, I am filled with the deepest compassion and love. Unconscious beliefs no longer dictate my experiences; instead of reliving old patterns, I have stepped into the role of the observer. Like the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly, I have undergone a transformation into something new.
The figure emerging from the cocoon embodies this newfound self. She radiates calm and tranquility. With her head resting gently on her hands, eyes closed in serene contemplation, she sits in a fetal position, emanating grace and poise as if in a pleasant dream state. Elevated above a city of ruins, she presides over a landscape scarred by the chaos of existence. The remnants of civilization lie in disarray beneath her, a poignant reminder of the fragility of human endeavor.
Yet amidst the chaos, cocoons hover like beacons of hope, symbols of the potential for transformation amidst destruction. This earthly composition, with tones and hues of a mystical sunset, serves as a canvas upon which the complexities of existence are painted, a reflection of the collective consciousness and the multiple layers that comprise it. It is a testament to the disentanglement of the ego self, a shedding of the illusions that bind us to a limited perception of reality.
Throughout my life and personal experiences, I’ve come to recognize my own journey within the five stages of spiritual awakening. Just as each of us is unique, our paths towards awakening resemble the spiral of DNA—distinct and nonlinear. Some of us may loop through these stages, while others may skip some altogether. These principles serve as a conceptual framework to aid us in understanding and navigating our individual journeys. The foundation of these five principles emerges from diverse spiritual traditions, philosophies, and personal insights, and they are as follows:
Unconsciousness:
At this stage, individuals dwell deeply within the realm of the ego. It’s a state characterized by the dominance of thoughts and emotions without conscious awareness. The individual closely identifies with these thoughts and feelings, believing them to be essential parts of their identity.The ego maintains a firm grip on the individual, blurring the line between the self and subjective experiences. At this stage, there’s a limited understanding of the interconnectedness of all things and a lack of recognition of deeper truths of existence.
Ego Death:
The second stage, known as “ego death,” signifies a profound shift in consciousness. It entails the dismantling of the ego’s dominance and the breaking down of barriers separating the individual from their true self and the world around them. This process can be immensely challenging and may involve experiences of existential crisis, disillusionment, or psychological turmoil as the individual confronts the limitations of their egoic identity. Ego death is marked by a dissolution of the ego’s rigid structures and a sense of egolessness or oneness with the universe. It serves as a pivotal moment of transformation and rebirth, guiding the individual towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the cosmos.
The Search:
Following ego death, many embark on a phase of intense seeking and exploration as they endeavor to make sense of their newfound insights and experiences. This stage is characterized by a profound yearning for truth, meaning, and purpose in life. Individuals may engage in various spiritual practices, such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness, to cultivate greater self-awareness and connection to the divine. The search may also involve seeking spiritual teachers, mentors, or communities for guidance and support on the path towards enlightenment. It’s a time of deep introspection, questioning, and soul-searching as individuals strive to uncover the deeper mysteries of existence and their own innermost being.
Emergence of the Authentic Self:
As individuals delve deeper into their spiritual journey, they begin to experience a profound sense of inner transformation and integration. This stage entails the emergence of the authentic self – the true essence of who they are beyond the confines of egoic conditioning and societal expectations. Individuals become more attuned to their inner guidance and intuition, enabling them to align more fully with their higher purpose and values. This process may involve healing past wounds, releasing limiting beliefs, and embracing aspects of themselves that were previously repressed or denied. It’s a period of profound self-discovery and self-acceptance as individuals learn to embrace their inherent wholeness and interconnectedness with all of creation.
Life of Alignment:
The final stage of spiritual awakening is characterized by a deep sense of alignment and integration with the greater whole. Individuals experience profound peace, fulfillment, and purpose as they live in harmony with their true nature and the divine flow of life. They embody the qualities of love, compassion, and wisdom in their interactions with others and the world around them. This stage is marked by a profound sense of presence and gratitude for the miracle of existence as individuals recognize the interconnectedness of all beings and the inherent sacredness of life itself. They may continue to engage in spiritual practices and growth-oriented activities, but from a place of deep inner knowing and trust in the unfolding of their journey. Ultimately, the life of alignment is a journey of continual growth, expansion, and evolution as individuals awaken to ever-deeper levels of truth and understanding.
Available Sizes | 120 cm x 120 cm, 60 cm x 60 cm, 80 cm x 80 cm, 100 cm x 100 cm |
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Media | This artwork is printed on archival fine art paper (print size includes white paper border) |
Signature & Certificate | Each limited Edition print is digitally signed with the unique stamp of the artist, and comes with a certificate of authenticity. |