Celtic Blessings

Did I tell you of my wonderful visit to Groam House museum?

Last year we came upon it quite by accident on travels up North.

I do have to admit I had never heard of this treasure trove before!

A wee museum with a wonderful collection of Pictish stones,

I gazed at them in awe, the detail & design from so long ago.

And taking pride of place the remarkable Rosemarkie cross-slab,

(image below, bottom right) taller than me & decorated all over!

 We were lucky to catch an exhibition of work by George Bain   

who dedicated much of his life to discovering the techniques 

used by the ancient Celts to achieve their intricate knotwork.

Bain is often called the Father of modern Celtic design.

I love his work (see below) & couldn't resist buying his book !

Back home as i walked in the quiet woods, amongst tangles of branches
 i was reminded of the celtic knotwork I had seen at Groam House
and a painting of branches & knots began to stir itself in my mind
it in turn bought to memory this beautiful Celtic blessing . . . 

Deep peace of the flowing air to you.
Deep peace of the quiet earth to you.
Deep peace of the shining stars to you.
Deep peace of the infinite peace to you.

(adapted from - ancient gaelic runes)
you can hear a wonderful version sung  here

and so was inspired my "Celtic Blessing tree".

Words & edges are picked out in gold and I love the way the 

light catches & glints every now and then, quite magical!

Finished at last & soon to be made into prints & cards.

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