Jessie Lawson MFA Visual Studies Thesis 2024
Psyche Redeemed explores the human psyche’s process of individuation or
wholeness through shadow work. This transformation is achieved through
the hero’s journey which is a cyclical event. It begins with a call to
adventure, followed by challenges and temptations, death and rebirth,
atonement and return. The Greek goddess Psyche, depicted in the central
panel, represents one of the few remaining female figures in Western
mythology who survived this transformative journey. Here Psyche is
represented by my daughter Demeter who is on the verge of her own
transformation and one of many hero’s journeys which she shall embark
upon in this lifetime. The “eyes” on her wings looking back at the
viewer represent Mother Nature as protector, nurturer and guide. The
Mother who provides for all of creation through the supreme intelligence
of design.