Since 1990 I have been working on two figurative symbolic series called Wisdom of the Ancient Lore: Symbolic Interpretation of Spiritual Knowledge. The larger series is my interpretation of the twenty two Major Arcana of the Tarot. The second series is based on the Zodiac, each work using an individual as an embodiment of the personality characteristics associated with each sign. Comprised of a collection of archetypes, when arranged in order each series becomes a journey of spiritual development towards enlightenment. The viewer does not need to believe in the Tarot or Zodiac as divination tools to enjoy the rich diversity of symbolism that lies within these systems. These archetypes, defined by Carl Jung as the instinctual forces operating independently within the depths of the human psyche, serve as a language for the subconscious. They link ancestral wisdom to our modern inner selves.

Attempts by humanity to appeal to the Creator and explain the unknown have resulted in a wide, colorful spectrum of spiritual expressions. Using multicultural imagery and drawing from a variety of faiths, I educate viewers about ideas to which they may not otherwise be exposed and to ancient spiritual truths often tainted by modern misconceptions. Through the archetypes of the Goddess, I express the importance of reintroducing the power of the female to restore a gender balance in society. By juxtaposing the symbology of various spiritual paths, my paintings illustrate the similarities between religions in a world where the differences are often a point of argument and basis of judgment. 

Each model is chosen because at that moment, he or she in some way embodies that particular archetype. The figures in the earlier works from each series were intended to come out of the picture plane and confront the viewer with each universal question. Models were surrounded by several items designed to illustrate the similarities between world cultures and beliefs. More recent works depict a single narrative from an ancient culture. Compositions are designed to draw one into each painting, involving the viewer in the visual story while serving as a metaphor for the present time.

Even through the narrative format, correspondences between cultures are ubiquitous. The parallels between world religions can largely be explained through the concepts of Jung, specifically his theory of the Collective Unconscious. Joseph Campbell has explored such similarities in his writings. On a deeper level, the age-old practice of Shamanic techniques cuts across national boundaries as Shamans worldwide access similar symbols and information via the Otherworld. My work reflects how these theories relate to the multifaceted expressions of human spirituality and culture.

~ Amy Funderburk