Queens and Priestesses: Guiding Emblems - Exhibit by Kristen Barsch von Benedikt

Historically, artistic representations depict the divine attributes in two separate and opposing categories: feminine or masculine. In my understanding however, these qualities work in harmonious cooperation with one another to form the balanced and integrated whole all humans should strive to obtain in order to live a happy life.

In the mythologies of the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Christians, the divine attributes are often physically embodied by different characters, typically human in appearance. The feminine or masculine qualities of these figures tend to be dramatically exaggerated. Unfortunately, over time the feminine has acquired negative connotations and blame and is portrayed as exclusively sensual. This lens obscures and undermines the deeper meanings and original intent behind these symbolic characters.

Instead I prefer to celebrate the feminine qualities, portraying them in ways that are applicable to all. In them, women maintain their emblematic attributes: ferocity, innocence, courage, intelligence, strength, beauty, and faith.…