IN THE BEGINNING (ALL 12-FULL PROJECT LICENSE)

Description

In the Beginning – Project Description

“In the Beginning” is a deeply intricate and symbolic art project that consists of twelve individual oil paintings by Marianne Nems, thoughtfully arranged in a Fibonacci spiral formation. This arrangement is not merely aesthetic but serves as a guiding principle for the narrative flow of the series. Each painting is meticulously crafted, representing a chapter in an expansive story that delves into the origins of life, the intricate balance of nature, and the dynamic interplay between the divine masculine and feminine forces. Together, these paintings explore the eternal cycle of existence, inviting viewers on a profound journey of discovery and introspection.

1. Central Painting (Middle Row, Second Position) – “Masculine Divine”:

   • The “Masculine Divine” serves as the heart and anchor of the project, symbolizing strength, power, and the protective essence of the male centaur. This figure transcends time and space, representing the eternal force of order and love that permeates the cosmos. The painting’s vibrant energy radiates outward, setting the tone for the entire series as it embodies the archetypal masculine qualities of leadership, justice, and resilience.

2. Second Painting (Middle Row, Third Position) – “Feminine Divine”:

   • Positioned to the right of the “Masculine Divine,” the “Feminine Divine” complements the central figure with its nurturing and sensual qualities. This painting celebrates the essence of femininity—creativity, intuition, and the cyclical nature of life. The female centaur stands as a symbol of fertility and the nurturing force that breathes life into the world, echoing the rhythms of nature and the profound beauty of creation.

3. Third Painting (Bottom Row, Third Position) – “Mist of the Morning Dew”:

   • Placed directly beneath the “Feminine Divine,” “Mist of the Morning Dew” captures the lower half of the female centaur as she stands amidst a lush, dew-covered landscape. Surrounded by blooming flowers and flowing water, this painting symbolizes her deep connection to the earth and the purity of the morning mist. The soft hues and gentle forms evoke a sense of tranquility, representing the renewal and freshness that accompanies the dawn of each new day.

4. Fourth Painting (Bottom Row, Second Position):

   • Positioned to the left of “Mist of the Morning Dew,” this artwork depicts the rear legs of the female centaur and the first leg of the male centaur, both immersed in the river’s cool waters. As the female centaur inhales the scent of flowers and the morning mist, the male centaur’s presence adds a dynamic contrast, symbolizing the union of masculine and feminine energies in the dance of life. The interplay of light and water in this painting emphasizes the harmonious balance between strength and serenity.

5. Fifth Painting (Bottom Row, First Position):

   • To the left of the fourth painting, this piece captures the other leg of the male centaur, mid-gallop, in a powerful stride that embodies movement, energy, and the relentless forward motion of life. The male centaur’s determined pace represents the drive to move forward, to create, and to shape reality with the force of will and purpose. This painting serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of the divine masculine, always in motion, always striving.

6. Sixth Painting (Middle Row, First Position) – “Dianthus the Divine Flower”:

   • Positioned directly above the fifth painting, “Dianthus the Divine Flower” depicts a vibrant, divine bloom in motion, as if swayed by the centaur’s movement and the gentle breeze. The flower exudes a scent of divine perfume that is both aphrodisiac and enchanting, symbolizing the intoxicating beauty of life and the sensual pleasures that enrich the human experience. The fluidity of the flower’s form captures the essence of life’s fleeting beauty and the ephemeral nature of joy.

7. Seventh Painting (Top Row, First Position) – “The Blue Dragonfly”:

   • Placed on top of “Dianthus the Divine Flower,” “The Blue Dragonfly” symbolizes fertility, renewal, and the delicate balance of life. The dragonfly, with its translucent wings and delicate form, embodies the fragility of existence and the importance of evolving, adapting, and embracing the journey of life. It serves as a reminder that, despite the challenges and fleeting nature of life, the pursuit of growth and the sharing of experiences are what give life its depth and meaning.

8. Eighth Painting (Top Row, Second Position) – “The Crown”:

   • Positioned to the right of “The Blue Dragonfly,” “The Crown” features the head and crown of the male centaur, with a futuristic and almost alien-like appearance. The yellow vortex behind his forehead symbolizes time and space travel, justice, and the illumination of wisdom. This painting portrays the centaur as a time traveler and a space explorer, a being of immense power and knowledge who brings light and order to the cosmos. The crown serves as a symbol of sovereignty, authority, and the divine right to rule with wisdom and compassion.

9. Ninth Painting (Top Row, Third Position) – “Eternity”:

   • Placed directly above the “Feminine Divine,” “Eternity” depicts another vortex, representing the endless cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This painting invites viewers to contemplate the mysteries of existence and the eternal journey of the soul. The swirling forms and vibrant colors suggest a connection to the infinite, where beginnings and endings are mere transitions in the vast continuum of life. “Eternity” serves as a visual meditation on the nature of time and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

10. Tenth Painting (Top Row, Fourth Position) – “Strawberry Field”:

    • Positioned to the right of “Eternity,” “Strawberry Field” depicts a lush, pink-hued landscape filled with ripe strawberries, symbolizing the sweetness and challenges of life. The strawberries, sometimes imperfect and adorned with small imperfections, represent the fruits of our labor and the rewards of cultivation. This painting is a reminder that life, with all its ups and downs, is a rich and rewarding experience, full of flavor and nourishment for the soul.

11. Eleventh Painting (Bottom Row, Fourth Position) – “The Apple”:

    • Placed directly under “Strawberry Field,” “The Apple” showcases a large, vibrant apple, a reference to New York City (the “Big Apple”), where Marianne Nems gained much of her life and professional experience. The apple symbolizes growth, knowledge, and the enriching experiences that shape our lives. This painting also serves as a nod to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, representing the duality of temptation and knowledge, and the choices that define our existence.

12. Twelfth Painting (Bottom Row, Fourth Position) – “The Lizard”:

    • Positioned directly under “The Apple,” “The Lizard” features a small, agile lizard, symbolizing the observer who witnesses the unfolding of life from the sidelines. The lizard represents the fear of the unknown and the desire to remain hidden, yet it also embodies the potential for transformation. As the lizard gains the courage to become an active participant in the cycle of life, it moves upwards with determination, driven by the desire to engage with the divine momentum and partake in the journey of existence.

“In the Beginning” is more than a collection of paintings; it is a narrative journey that invites viewers to explore the origins of existence, the interplay of divine forces, and the cyclical nature of life. Each painting is a vital piece of the story, contributing to a larger understanding of the human experience and the universe that surrounds us. Through the intricate symbolism and the harmonious arrangement of these works, “In the Beginning” offers a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of all things, from the smallest flower to the vastness of the cosmos.