The Dance of Time - Gold & Light Series

A Celebration of Life’s Cycles

The pīwakawaka, or fantail, is a symbol of joy, adaptability, and spiritual connection. In Māori mythology, it is known as a messenger between worlds, flitting between past, present, and future, bringing guidance and transformation.

In The Dance of Time, I wanted to capture the journey of life—its transitions, its moments of stillness, and its leaps of faith. The three fantails in different stages of life remind us of our own path: the fledgling, full of curiosity and new beginnings; the grounded presence of experience; and the one in mid-flight, embodying trust and surrender to the winds of change.

The soft blues and warm golds of the background speak of infinite skies and the grounding force of the earth, while the deep, rich reds hint at passion, vitality, and the unseen threads that weave our lives together. This piece is alive with movement—just like the ever-changing cycles we all move through.

Part of my Gold & Light series, The Dance of Time is a reminder that we are always in motion, always growing, and always connected to something greater than ourselves. Whether you are at the beginning of a journey, standing firm in your wisdom, or leaping into the unknown, the pīwakawaka invites you to embrace it all with joy.

Which stage of the dance are you in? Let the fantail guide you forward with lightness and grace.

This mixed-media painting is 30 x 40 inches.