North Carolina artist Robyn Crawford’s latest mixed media works are a continuation of her “goddess series,” celebrating myths and legends that connect us. The art will be shown in the “Celestial Spirits: Sacred Light of the Sun, Moon and Stars” exhibit June 3 through 28 in Gallery II of the Artists Collective | Spartanburg.
An artist’s reception will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 19, as part of Spartanburg ArtWalk. The reception and exhibition viewing are free and open to the public. The 18 pieces in the show will be offered for purchase with prices ranging from $150 to $2,500.
“This is a celestial-inspired exhibit celebrating the divine essence of the moon, sun and stars, embodied through creations using crystals, glass and resin,” the Hendersonville artist says. “Each piece radiates energy, connecting earthly materials to the mystique of the heavens. This work is a continuation of my goddess series I have been creating for three years now.”
The exhibit is “a celebration of the myths and legends that connect us across time and cultures, reminding us that despite our differences, we share a deep, universal bond with each other and the universe,” she adds.
Visitors to the exhibition “will experience a profound relationship to cosmic mythology, exploring the timeless power and mystery of celestial goddesses through shimmering, multidimensional artworks,” Crawford says. “My hope is to offer a space for reflection, and inspiration, where the interplay of crystals, glass and resin evokes a sense of divine presence and celestial harmony.”
Crawford says her works are inspired by the night sky. “I’ve always been enchanted by the night sky, drawn to the quiet magic of stargazing and the myths that bind us to the cosmos. Across cultures, goddesses such as Amaterasu, Selene and Nut embody the celestial forces of the sun, moon and stars, weaving divine energy into the heavens. This exhibit brings their essence to life, transforming sacred mythology into abstract creations and inviting others to experience the wonder of the universe.”
Her work has been described as “an immersive experience that must be seen in person, as photographs can’t fully capture the brilliance of light, refraction and shifting depths within the materials. Each piece transforms as the viewer moves, creating a dynamic interplay of color and luminosity that is best appreciated firsthand.
“Visitors can expect to see a collection of abstract artwork each inspired by goddesses from various cultures. I love to spend quite a bit of time researching myths and legends from around the world as well as sourcing out stones, crystals and other materials I believe will help bring them to life. I hope visitors feel a deep bond to the divine forces that shape the cosmos, inspired by the beauty and mythology woven into each radiant creation.”
After growing up on the north shore of Massachusetts, in the Newburyport area, Crawford has lived in North Carolina for more than 30 years. “I have been an artist all my life. I’m just lucky it’s now my full-time job as a working artist and instructor.”
Crawford says she feels privileged to be having a solo exhibition at the Artists Collective | Spartanburg. “I push the boundaries of my work each time I create an installation, and I benefit from the personal and professional growth I experience as an artist. I treasure this group of fellow artists who are always so welcoming and supportive. Being part of a creative tribe is so important to me.”