Arachne Reborn Size:  61 x 45.5 cm (24 x 18 in) Medium:  Acrylic Support:  Gessoboard Notes:  Airbrushed with stylized realism. Visualizing the climax of a myth. Arachne, the daughter of a renowned dyer, was known for her skill at weaving. She boasted that Athena herself couldn’t best her. Though warned, Arachne refused to acknowledge that at least some of her knowledge came from the goddess. Athena went in disguise to warn Arachne not to be so conceited and to not offend the gods. Arachne scoffed and wished that she could engage in a contest with Athena to prove her skill. Athena revealed herself and accepted. Athena wove a perfect scene of her victory over Poseidon which inspired the people of Athens to name their city for her. Arachne’s effort showed 21 depictions of the failings and transgressions of the gods. Even Athena agreed that Arachne’s work was immaculate. Whether for that or for the subject matter, Athena’s anger caused her to lash out at Arachne, destroying her loom and smiting her face. Refusing to bow to Athena (though some say it was due to realizing her folly), Arachne hanged herself. Out of pity, or perhaps spite, Athena transformed Arachne–the rope becoming spider silk. In this painting, Athena is looking at the result of her handiwork. Much of the painting is intentionally softly focused. Though the dominant image is that of Athena, I wanted the viewer’s gaze to always be drawn to Arachne. I also opted to not be overly beholden to the idea of realism for this piece in order to enhance the emotion–which, for Athena, can be interpreted as either lingering anger or pity/compassion. The dramatic lighting was chosen to further [...]

Athena’s Little Owl Size:  12.6 x 17.8 cm (5 x 7 in) Medium:  Scratchboard Support:  Scratchbord Notes:  My first scratchboard started. It flew up onto a gallery wall pretty quickly. This is the first scratchboard piece that I started, though the second one finished (all those feathers!). Once framed, it went straight onto the gallery wall for sale. This one obliquely touches on my love of Hellenic Mythology. The Little Owl (yes, that’s what it is really called) was the species of owl that was most often symbolized with the goddess Athena. I figured if I was going to venture forth onto the untamed seas of scratchboarding, it would be nice to gain divine favor at the outset. This image and many other images by CJ Carter are ready for purchase in a variety of formats: prints, canvas prints, phone cases, and so much more. Help support this site and the artist by dropping by the store and getting gifts for yourself, for family, and friends.