Skip to profile content

I have always been drawn to symbolism and to the way ideas can be communicated beyond the obvious. In this work, the crane symbolizes vigilance and spiritual alertness, inspired by an ancient belief that a crane would rest while holding a stone in its raised foot. If it fell asleep, the stone would drop and awaken it. The crane becomes a metaphor for remaining awake to the choices and influences that shape our actions. The cross adds another layer of meaning, recalling the legend of Emperor Constantine, who reportedly saw a radiant cross before the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, accompanied by the words In Hoc Signo Vinces, meaning “In this sign, you shall conquer.” The cross represents faith, conviction, and spiritual guidance. Together, the crane and cross speak to spiritual vigilance—the discipline to remain watchful and the faith to recognize the signs that guide us toward goodness. They remind us to stay attentive to the opportunities around us to embody that goodness in how we treat others.

From Julie Peterson Shea

  1. Liminal by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    Liminal

    Pen and Ink on Paper

    9.5 x 11 in

  2. Protection

    Mixed Media- watercolor, acrylic, pen and ink

    32 x 24 in

  3. Moonbeams by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    Moonbeams

    Pen and Ink on Paper

    48 x 26 x 1 in

  4. Bird Brain by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    Bird Brain

    Pen and Ink, Marker on Paper

    14 x 11 in

  5. Spring Flowers and Cat Skull by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    Spring Flowers and Cat Skull

    Pen and Ink with marker on Paper

    9 x 12 in

  6. March Hare by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    March Hare

    Pen and Ink on Paper

    12 x 9 in

  7. On Tiny Wings by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    On Tiny Wings

    Pen and Ink

    12 x 9 in

  8. Hare and Hibiscus by Julie Peterson Shea, Image 1.

    Hare and Hibiscus

    Pen and Ink, Digital drawing, Gold Foil Hand Embelishment

    14 x 11 in

Powered by Artwork Archive