Reconnecting with ancient wisdom through encaustic art
“Myths are more than just stories to me. They act as a reminder that we come from an old lineage of wisdom keepers. This is an essential source of hope, strength and love for me as a woman in this time.”
- Anne-Claire Martens
ARTIST STATEMENT
I am Anne-Claire Martens, encaustic artist and empowerer of the life-giving. Born with a pencil in my hand, observing the world around me, I learned through drawing what it means to be a creative being. I was born in the Netherlands, with ancestors from many corners of Europe. Through my art, I pay tribute to their ancient knowledge and wisdom. For here too, on this land, people once lived in deep connection with the earth and their own indigenous culture.
I believe that when we learn to build bridges between the wisdom of the past and the insights of the present, we create magic for a sustainable future. My work is rooted in ancient history, mysticism, myth, and story — guiding you to reconnect with your own inner knowing.
During a time of inner darkness and storm, I discovered deep within me a smoldering ember. Within each of us lives that ember — a spark that endures, even when everything around us crumbles. This inner fire can offer sanctuary and nourishment when all seems lost. This sacred flame inspires us and helps us reconnect with ourselves, with each other, and with the world.
With that ember glowing in my belly, I found strength in ancient symbols, hope in mythical stories, and solace in our ancestral history. In my search for connection, I followed the path my ancestors once walked — a journey that led me back to an ancient era, when women were honored as the heart of their matrilineal societies, and wisdom was passed down through their artistic creations over many generations. For before the Indo-European invasions, before the conquests, we used to live in peace.
It is this ancestral memory that I strive to reawaken. I believe that when we restore balance within ourselves, the harmony of all that surrounds us is renewed. It is time to feel what healing truly means. The bees guide me on this journey, and I am forever grateful for their wisdom.
I wish to empower all that is life-giving, for the wellbeing of all. This is my inner fire and I hope to ignite yours too.
With love,
Anne-Claire Martens
Photo's by Tumbleweed & Fireflies
