Description

Celtic legends say that Aine was the daughter of Eogabail, who was a member of the legendary Tuatha Dé Danann. In ancient Irish myths and legends, Aine is described as a Faery Queen, a goddess of the earth and nature, and a solar deity. She is also a goddess of love and fertility, she is revered for her ability to bring abundance and prosperity. Her connection to the land is evident in her role as a goddess of sovereignty, where she is seen as a guardian of the earth and a bestower of kingship. Áine’s influence is deeply embedded in the physical landscape of Ireland. Her presence is particularly strong in County Limerick, where several landmarks bear her name. Knockainey Hill, known in Irish as Cnoc Áine, is a significant site associated with her. It is said that Áine resides in this hill, and it serves as a focal point for rituals and celebrations in her honour.

Áine’s role as a sun goddess links her to the cycles of light and darkness, particularly the summer solstice, when the sun reaches its peak. This is a time to call on Áine as Queen of the Fae for a boon after a sacred offering or sacrifice. She is a link connecting the many realms of the living and the dead, and often a guide to the underworld. Also from this open connection other realms come over to dance in the faerie forts on the ancient hill tops of Ireland. Just as it is here in the West Country when the piskies dance atop the tors and in the circles of stone, celebrating the continued cycle of life, death and rebirth, and for the continued fertility of the land.

This painting as with most of my work has a very personal aspect and purpose. It is my dedication, my offering to this goddess as I call on her to aid me in a very special private request I will be embarking on at Lughnasadh.

I honoured and created this dedication piece around mid summer to hold a connection open for me. She will be with me and on my altar as I draw and paint through the first harvest until the second Harvest at Autumn Equinox 2025.