The Faces of Survival: Goddesses and Warriors in Our Midst
The United States of America is in crisis and our democracy is at risk. Chaos and disinformation make it hard to know where to focus our attention as people from all walks of life seem to be under attack simultaneously. Since 2020, I have been using my artwork as a tool for social consciousness, focusing on how the social issues of today are impacting people and our planet. With so much happening in the country and around the world, I decided to narrow my scope and shine a spotlight on a specific group of people. Therefore, my newest series is about telling the stories of mothers and children who have survived a traumatic event or experience in their lives.
The Madonna and Child Portrait has been capturing my attention since my first trip to Italy at age 16. The Renaissance masters, Botticelli and Raphael, painted numerous Madonna and Child portraits that I find so beautiful and tender that seeing them in person often brings tears to my eyes. To me, these paintings represent some of the most powerful symbols of the Divine Feminine in art. Paintings and sculptures that depict the stories of the mythological Goddesses from various cultures also play an important role in defining the Divine Feminine archetypes. These archetypes are universal and collective characteristics and behaviors inherent to every woman. Simply put, the Divine Feminine represents qualities such as creativity, intuition and inner wisdom, compassion and empathy, connection to nature and the rhythms of life, adaptability, and balance. Although this series is focusing primarily on women, the Divine Feminine isn’t limited to women only. It is an energy that exists in everyone and balances what is called the Divine Masculine, qualities that are more action-driven and logical. At a point in human history, thousands of years ago, there was a gradual shift away from interdependence, nature, and regeneration (Divine Feminine qualities) and toward dominion, control, and conquest (Divine Masculine qualities). This gradual shift created an imbalance, which could account for the current state of disenfranchisement in our world.
My mother and child portraits depict the women and their children as either goddesses or women warriors. While the goddesses are mythological figures from various cultures, most of the women warriors were real women from history. My goal is to portray the women in an uplifting way to demonstrate the courage, determination, and perseverance they accessed as they overcame huge obstacles and challenges in their lives. Despite the fact that women are slowly losing their rights in this country, my oil paintings tell a different story, a story of women who have struggled and prevailed, with a sense of empowerment, confidence, and ferocity.
When you look back through history, women’s stories are not often told. While researching women warriors for this series, I was amazed that every search I conducted yielded multiple women warriors from a specific region of the world. Why hadn’t I heard of them before? This collection of paintings brings the stories of these women warriors to the forefront. As you view these portraits, please read the stories of the challenges overcome by my models and the historical accounts of each woman warrior being portrayed.
To see how these first four paintings unfolded, watch this slide show of the progress photos.
And my work on this series continues… if you are a mother with a survival story to tell and would like to model for a portrait, click here or on the "Modeling Opportunity" button at the bottom of this page.
The United States of America is in crisis and our democracy is at risk. Chaos and disinformation make it hard to know where to focus our attention as people from all walks of life seem to be under attack simultaneously. Since 2020, I have been using my artwork as a tool for social consciousness, focusing on how the social issues of today are impacting people and our planet. With so much happening in the country and around the world, I decided to narrow my scope and shine a spotlight on a specific group of people. Therefore, my newest series is about telling the stories of mothers and children who have survived a traumatic event or experience in their lives.
The Madonna and Child Portrait has been capturing my attention since my first trip to Italy at age 16. The Renaissance masters, Botticelli and Raphael, painted numerous Madonna and Child portraits that I find so beautiful and tender that seeing them in person often brings tears to my eyes. To me, these paintings represent some of the most powerful symbols of the Divine Feminine in art. Paintings and sculptures that depict the stories of the mythological Goddesses from various cultures also play an important role in defining the Divine Feminine archetypes. These archetypes are universal and collective characteristics and behaviors inherent to every woman. Simply put, the Divine Feminine represents qualities such as creativity, intuition and inner wisdom, compassion and empathy, connection to nature and the rhythms of life, adaptability, and balance. Although this series is focusing primarily on women, the Divine Feminine isn’t limited to women only. It is an energy that exists in everyone and balances what is called the Divine Masculine, qualities that are more action-driven and logical. At a point in human history, thousands of years ago, there was a gradual shift away from interdependence, nature, and regeneration (Divine Feminine qualities) and toward dominion, control, and conquest (Divine Masculine qualities). This gradual shift created an imbalance, which could account for the current state of disenfranchisement in our world.
My mother and child portraits depict the women and their children as either goddesses or women warriors. While the goddesses are mythological figures from various cultures, most of the women warriors were real women from history. My goal is to portray the women in an uplifting way to demonstrate the courage, determination, and perseverance they accessed as they overcame huge obstacles and challenges in their lives. Despite the fact that women are slowly losing their rights in this country, my oil paintings tell a different story, a story of women who have struggled and prevailed, with a sense of empowerment, confidence, and ferocity.
When you look back through history, women’s stories are not often told. While researching women warriors for this series, I was amazed that every search I conducted yielded multiple women warriors from a specific region of the world. Why hadn’t I heard of them before? This collection of paintings brings the stories of these women warriors to the forefront. As you view these portraits, please read the stories of the challenges overcome by my models and the historical accounts of each woman warrior being portrayed.
To see how these first four paintings unfolded, watch this slide show of the progress photos.
And my work on this series continues… if you are a mother with a survival story to tell and would like to model for a portrait, click here or on the "Modeling Opportunity" button at the bottom of this page.
Tory and Lars as Scathach
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
What started out as a headache, turned out to be a rare condition involving the blood vessels in Tory’s son Lars’ brain. The ordeal included a severe brain bleed, a medically induced coma, brain swelling, paralysis, an aneurysm, surgery, weeks in the ICU, and months in a rehab hospital. Lars had to relearn how to eat, speak and walk. And he exited the hospital running, walking, and eating! Tory feels like she won the lottery because Lars is so strong and happy now, as a result of a lot of little things going right!
Scathach, Celtic Warrior Teacher
Scathach is a legendary figure in Celtic mythology, particularly in Irish tradition, known as a powerful warrior-woman and instructor of heroes. She resides in the fortress of Dun Scaith (“Fortress of Shadows”) on the Isle of Skye, where she trains warriors in the arts of combat, including the great Ulster hero Cu Chulainn. Described as both a formidable fighter and a mystical figure, she is said to possess supernatural abilities, including foresight and the ability to bestow great warrior skills upon her students. She is most famous for teaching Cu Chulainn the use of the Gae Bulg, a deadly spear that could only be wielded with her instruction. Often depicted as both a mentor and a prophetess, Scathach embodies the archetype of the wise and formidable female warrior in Celtic tradition.
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
What started out as a headache, turned out to be a rare condition involving the blood vessels in Tory’s son Lars’ brain. The ordeal included a severe brain bleed, a medically induced coma, brain swelling, paralysis, an aneurysm, surgery, weeks in the ICU, and months in a rehab hospital. Lars had to relearn how to eat, speak and walk. And he exited the hospital running, walking, and eating! Tory feels like she won the lottery because Lars is so strong and happy now, as a result of a lot of little things going right!
Scathach, Celtic Warrior Teacher
Scathach is a legendary figure in Celtic mythology, particularly in Irish tradition, known as a powerful warrior-woman and instructor of heroes. She resides in the fortress of Dun Scaith (“Fortress of Shadows”) on the Isle of Skye, where she trains warriors in the arts of combat, including the great Ulster hero Cu Chulainn. Described as both a formidable fighter and a mystical figure, she is said to possess supernatural abilities, including foresight and the ability to bestow great warrior skills upon her students. She is most famous for teaching Cu Chulainn the use of the Gae Bulg, a deadly spear that could only be wielded with her instruction. Often depicted as both a mentor and a prophetess, Scathach embodies the archetype of the wise and formidable female warrior in Celtic tradition.
Paula and Beautiful as Septimia Zenobia
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
Paula was a 20-year old single mom, with no support from her mother, and became homeless. Her baby son lived with her aunt until she was able to get an apartment when he was 2-1/2 years old. She also went back to school, received her diploma and went to college. After the birth of her daughter, Beautiful, Paula felt unsafe where she was living, but found shelter at the Holy Family Home for Mothers and Children. While living there, Paula got back on her feet by working full-time and eventually rented an apartment. Now she’s on track to purchase her own home.
Septimia Zenobia, Queen of Palmyra in Syria
Septimia Zenobia was a third-century queen of the Palmyrene Empire in Syria, known for her intelligence, military prowess, and ambition. After the death of her husband, King Odaenathus, she became regent for their young son and swiftly expanded Palmyra’s control, conquering Egypt and much of the Eastern Roman territories. A bold and charismatic leader, she challenged Roman authority until Emperor Aurelian defeated her forces in 272 CE. Captured and taken to Rome, her ultimate fate remains uncertain, with some accounts suggesting she lived in exile as a Roman noblewoman. Zenobia remains a symbol of resilience and power in ancient history.
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
Paula was a 20-year old single mom, with no support from her mother, and became homeless. Her baby son lived with her aunt until she was able to get an apartment when he was 2-1/2 years old. She also went back to school, received her diploma and went to college. After the birth of her daughter, Beautiful, Paula felt unsafe where she was living, but found shelter at the Holy Family Home for Mothers and Children. While living there, Paula got back on her feet by working full-time and eventually rented an apartment. Now she’s on track to purchase her own home.
Septimia Zenobia, Queen of Palmyra in Syria
Septimia Zenobia was a third-century queen of the Palmyrene Empire in Syria, known for her intelligence, military prowess, and ambition. After the death of her husband, King Odaenathus, she became regent for their young son and swiftly expanded Palmyra’s control, conquering Egypt and much of the Eastern Roman territories. A bold and charismatic leader, she challenged Roman authority until Emperor Aurelian defeated her forces in 272 CE. Captured and taken to Rome, her ultimate fate remains uncertain, with some accounts suggesting she lived in exile as a Roman noblewoman. Zenobia remains a symbol of resilience and power in ancient history.
Jamie and Olivia as The Morrigan
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
After dropping me at the airport following the Christmas holidays, my daughter Jamie saw a deer run out in front of her car on the interstate highway. She clipped the butt of the deer with her right front fender, but the car driving next to her swerved to avoid the deer and t-boned Jamie’s car, sending it careening across the highway into the guard rail and back across to the median. Later, at the hospital, it was discovered that Jamie’s neck was broken in a couple of places. Luckily, there was no paralysis but she had to wear a solid neck brace 24/7 for 10 weeks. It was heartbreaking to watch my daughter in constant pain, but she never complained. Happily, Jamie is all healed and although she still has some residual pain, she has resumed her daily routines with her children and as a Labor and Delivery Surgical Tech!
The Morrigan, Celtic Goddess
The Morrigan is a powerful goddess from Irish mythology associated with war, fate, and sovereignty. Often depicted as a shape-shifter, she can appear as a maiden, a warrior, an old woman, or a crow. She is sometimes considered a triple goddess, with aspects represented by Badb, Macha, and Nemain. The Morrigan influences battles by striking fear into enemies, foretelling doom, or granting victory to favored warriors. She is closely tied to the land and kingship, symbolizing both destruction and renewal. As a harbinger of death, she appears on battlefields, predicting the fates of warriors and ensuring the cycle of life and war continues.
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
After dropping me at the airport following the Christmas holidays, my daughter Jamie saw a deer run out in front of her car on the interstate highway. She clipped the butt of the deer with her right front fender, but the car driving next to her swerved to avoid the deer and t-boned Jamie’s car, sending it careening across the highway into the guard rail and back across to the median. Later, at the hospital, it was discovered that Jamie’s neck was broken in a couple of places. Luckily, there was no paralysis but she had to wear a solid neck brace 24/7 for 10 weeks. It was heartbreaking to watch my daughter in constant pain, but she never complained. Happily, Jamie is all healed and although she still has some residual pain, she has resumed her daily routines with her children and as a Labor and Delivery Surgical Tech!
The Morrigan, Celtic Goddess
The Morrigan is a powerful goddess from Irish mythology associated with war, fate, and sovereignty. Often depicted as a shape-shifter, she can appear as a maiden, a warrior, an old woman, or a crow. She is sometimes considered a triple goddess, with aspects represented by Badb, Macha, and Nemain. The Morrigan influences battles by striking fear into enemies, foretelling doom, or granting victory to favored warriors. She is closely tied to the land and kingship, symbolizing both destruction and renewal. As a harbinger of death, she appears on battlefields, predicting the fates of warriors and ensuring the cycle of life and war continues.
Goddess of the Wind and Stars
Elena and Isabel as Antu Silan Ulap
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
Because of my desire to protect her identity and because of the danger to immigrants (or anyone ICE thinks looks like an immigrant) living in the United States at this time, I am using fictitious names for the model of this painting and her young daughter. I also will not disclose the specific towns where she was born and where she currently resides.
As a child, Elena lived with her grandmother in a town in El Salvador. Her mother had already moved to the United States leaving Elena living in poverty, without love, and without even running water. It was an unhappy childhood that extended into her teen years. Elena was unable to find work because it was too dangerous to ride the bus. Crime was high in that town because it had become a transit point for drugs and arms, a smuggling hub, and also at high risk for land mines and other unexplored remnants of war.
At age 19, Elena set out, without any family, on a journey to the United States. She traveled sometimes on foot and by bus from El Salvador through Guatemala and Mexico, sleeping in the mountains, for a month or longer, until she reached the Texas border. If she had been caught and sent back to El Salvador, Elena said she wouldn’t have tried again because this expedition is one of extreme hardship. Upon arrival at the border, Elena surrendered herself and was placed in detention until her mother sent the money for a plane ticket and clothing. When she was released from detention, perhaps after a month, Elena was given an appointment date to appear in immigration court. Customs and Border Protection provided transportation to the airport. Her brother picked her up from the airport at her destination and Elena was finally reunited with her mother! In her new home state, she appeared in immigration court and she was granted an Adjustment of Status because her mother and siblings were in the U.S.
Like so many other immigrants in the same position as Elena, she studied speaking English with a tutor, worked two jobs, and sent money back to El Salvador. Eventually, she was able to get her drivers license, buy a car, and get a better paying union job, which allowed her to move out of her mother’s house. When she applied for Permanent Residency (green card), the judge said that she didn’t qualify but because of her achievements and hard work, he said she deserved it and he granted it. Five years later, Elena is now a Naturalized Citizen of the United States! And she’s happily married with a beautiful daughter, Isabel!
Antu Silan Ulap, Lenca Warrior
Antu Silan Ulap was a legendary Lenca warrior and leader from the region that is now El Salvador and Honduras, known for her fierce resistance against Spanish colonization in the 16th century. As one of the few documented indigenous women to command warriors in battle, she symbolizes strength, defiance, and leadership in the face of invasion. Her name, often translated as “Goddess of the Wind and Stars,” reflects both her mythic stature and her cultural significance among the Lenca people. Though historical records are scarce, oral tradition and modern interpretations continue to honor her as a powerful figure in the indigenous struggle for sovereignty and identity. According to one account, she traveled from village to village urging the Lenca towns to unite, pledge dignity and defend their territory. It is said that she led or facilitated surprise attacks, or otherwise mobilized people to expel Spanish presence in places like San Miguel for a period.
Elena and Isabel as Antu Silan Ulap
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
Because of my desire to protect her identity and because of the danger to immigrants (or anyone ICE thinks looks like an immigrant) living in the United States at this time, I am using fictitious names for the model of this painting and her young daughter. I also will not disclose the specific towns where she was born and where she currently resides.
As a child, Elena lived with her grandmother in a town in El Salvador. Her mother had already moved to the United States leaving Elena living in poverty, without love, and without even running water. It was an unhappy childhood that extended into her teen years. Elena was unable to find work because it was too dangerous to ride the bus. Crime was high in that town because it had become a transit point for drugs and arms, a smuggling hub, and also at high risk for land mines and other unexplored remnants of war.
At age 19, Elena set out, without any family, on a journey to the United States. She traveled sometimes on foot and by bus from El Salvador through Guatemala and Mexico, sleeping in the mountains, for a month or longer, until she reached the Texas border. If she had been caught and sent back to El Salvador, Elena said she wouldn’t have tried again because this expedition is one of extreme hardship. Upon arrival at the border, Elena surrendered herself and was placed in detention until her mother sent the money for a plane ticket and clothing. When she was released from detention, perhaps after a month, Elena was given an appointment date to appear in immigration court. Customs and Border Protection provided transportation to the airport. Her brother picked her up from the airport at her destination and Elena was finally reunited with her mother! In her new home state, she appeared in immigration court and she was granted an Adjustment of Status because her mother and siblings were in the U.S.
Like so many other immigrants in the same position as Elena, she studied speaking English with a tutor, worked two jobs, and sent money back to El Salvador. Eventually, she was able to get her drivers license, buy a car, and get a better paying union job, which allowed her to move out of her mother’s house. When she applied for Permanent Residency (green card), the judge said that she didn’t qualify but because of her achievements and hard work, he said she deserved it and he granted it. Five years later, Elena is now a Naturalized Citizen of the United States! And she’s happily married with a beautiful daughter, Isabel!
Antu Silan Ulap, Lenca Warrior
Antu Silan Ulap was a legendary Lenca warrior and leader from the region that is now El Salvador and Honduras, known for her fierce resistance against Spanish colonization in the 16th century. As one of the few documented indigenous women to command warriors in battle, she symbolizes strength, defiance, and leadership in the face of invasion. Her name, often translated as “Goddess of the Wind and Stars,” reflects both her mythic stature and her cultural significance among the Lenca people. Though historical records are scarce, oral tradition and modern interpretations continue to honor her as a powerful figure in the indigenous struggle for sovereignty and identity. According to one account, she traveled from village to village urging the Lenca towns to unite, pledge dignity and defend their territory. It is said that she led or facilitated surprise attacks, or otherwise mobilized people to expel Spanish presence in places like San Miguel for a period.
Nakeesha and Nylah as Weetamoo
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
Here is Nakeesha’s story in her own words:
“At a young age, my siblings and I were removed from our home and entered the foster care system. Over the years, we experienced several placement changes, eventually leading to us being separated into different homes. Growing up, I was exposed to difficult circumstances, including witnessing my mother face domestic violence and struggles with substance use. Today, as a mother myself, I am determined to change the narrative of my life story. I refuse to let my past define me. Instead, the challenges I’ve faced have strengthened me and fueled my commitment to create a better, more stable, and loving future for my children.”
Nakeesha is part Narragansett, part Wampanoag, and a little Pequot too. She is dressed in Wampanoag regalia made by Anita Peters (also known as Mother Bear) of Mashpee, MA. The artwork on the regalia was designed by Toni Weeden-Wright of East Providence, RI.
Weetamoo, Wampanoag Sachem
Weetamoo was a powerful and influential female sachem (chief) of the Pocasset Wampanoag tribe in 17th-century New England. Born around 1635, she played a key leadership role during a time of growing tension between Native American tribes and English colonists. Known for her intelligence, diplomatic skill, and warrior spirit, Weetamoo allied with Metacomet (King Philip) during King Philip’s War (1675–1676), a major conflict between Indigenous peoples and colonial settlers. As a leader, she commanded respect from both her people and her enemies, and she led warriors into battle in defense of her land and sovereignty. Tragically, she died in 1676 while fleeing English forces, her body found floating in a river—her death marked a symbolic and literal loss for Native resistance during the war.
Oil on canvas
27x33 inches
Here is Nakeesha’s story in her own words:
“At a young age, my siblings and I were removed from our home and entered the foster care system. Over the years, we experienced several placement changes, eventually leading to us being separated into different homes. Growing up, I was exposed to difficult circumstances, including witnessing my mother face domestic violence and struggles with substance use. Today, as a mother myself, I am determined to change the narrative of my life story. I refuse to let my past define me. Instead, the challenges I’ve faced have strengthened me and fueled my commitment to create a better, more stable, and loving future for my children.”
Nakeesha is part Narragansett, part Wampanoag, and a little Pequot too. She is dressed in Wampanoag regalia made by Anita Peters (also known as Mother Bear) of Mashpee, MA. The artwork on the regalia was designed by Toni Weeden-Wright of East Providence, RI.
Weetamoo, Wampanoag Sachem
Weetamoo was a powerful and influential female sachem (chief) of the Pocasset Wampanoag tribe in 17th-century New England. Born around 1635, she played a key leadership role during a time of growing tension between Native American tribes and English colonists. Known for her intelligence, diplomatic skill, and warrior spirit, Weetamoo allied with Metacomet (King Philip) during King Philip’s War (1675–1676), a major conflict between Indigenous peoples and colonial settlers. As a leader, she commanded respect from both her people and her enemies, and she led warriors into battle in defense of her land and sovereignty. Tragically, she died in 1676 while fleeing English forces, her body found floating in a river—her death marked a symbolic and literal loss for Native resistance during the war.
Deb and Marissa as Joan of Arc
Oil on canvas
28 x34 inches
Deb is a breast cancer survivor and this is her story in her own words:
“In October of 2024, I felt a thickness in my breast on the bra line. I thought I pulled a muscle. But, there was pain in other areas of the breast and it just didn’t feel right to me. I called my ob doctor and she sent me for an ultrasound and then a biopsy. Turns out it was a tumor and Stage 2 breast cancer. It was a long year of treatment including six months of estrogen-blocking meds, two surgeries, and four weeks of radiation therapy. I will be taking medicine for the next 5-10 years and have regular testing. The fight isn’t over, but at least this year is behind me. Moral of the story: please get your yearly breast screening and do self-exams, AND if you feel something suspicious, call your doctor. Early detection is the best prevention! Thanks to my family for your support, especially my loving sons and my caring daughter-in-law, for listening to me when I was scared. Marissa, I love you!”
Footnote: while Deb was undergoing her cancer treatment, Marissa was experiencing the normal struggles of pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for an infant. The love and support she extended to Deb during a challenging time for herself is the perfect model for grace.
Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc was a fearless and inspirational warrior who played a pivotal role in the Hundred Years’ War, leading French forces to key victories despite having no formal military training. Driven by divine visions, she donned plate armor and carried a white banner, rallying demoralized troops with her unwavering faith and bold leadership. Her strategic instincts and aggressive tactics, particularly at the Siege of Orléans and the Battle of Patay, helped turn the tide of the war in France’s favor. Though she was wounded in battle, she remained resolute, proving herself not only as a symbol of hope but as an active force in combat. Her military success ultimately paved the way for the coronation of Charles VII, cementing her legacy as one of history’s most extraordinary warrior-saints.
Oil on canvas
28 x34 inches
Deb is a breast cancer survivor and this is her story in her own words:
“In October of 2024, I felt a thickness in my breast on the bra line. I thought I pulled a muscle. But, there was pain in other areas of the breast and it just didn’t feel right to me. I called my ob doctor and she sent me for an ultrasound and then a biopsy. Turns out it was a tumor and Stage 2 breast cancer. It was a long year of treatment including six months of estrogen-blocking meds, two surgeries, and four weeks of radiation therapy. I will be taking medicine for the next 5-10 years and have regular testing. The fight isn’t over, but at least this year is behind me. Moral of the story: please get your yearly breast screening and do self-exams, AND if you feel something suspicious, call your doctor. Early detection is the best prevention! Thanks to my family for your support, especially my loving sons and my caring daughter-in-law, for listening to me when I was scared. Marissa, I love you!”
Footnote: while Deb was undergoing her cancer treatment, Marissa was experiencing the normal struggles of pregnancy, childbirth, and caring for an infant. The love and support she extended to Deb during a challenging time for herself is the perfect model for grace.
Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc was a fearless and inspirational warrior who played a pivotal role in the Hundred Years’ War, leading French forces to key victories despite having no formal military training. Driven by divine visions, she donned plate armor and carried a white banner, rallying demoralized troops with her unwavering faith and bold leadership. Her strategic instincts and aggressive tactics, particularly at the Siege of Orléans and the Battle of Patay, helped turn the tide of the war in France’s favor. Though she was wounded in battle, she remained resolute, proving herself not only as a symbol of hope but as an active force in combat. Her military success ultimately paved the way for the coronation of Charles VII, cementing her legacy as one of history’s most extraordinary warrior-saints.