Why the World Needs the Goddess
In ancient times, the Goddess was revered. Her image appeared across sacred sites around the world in countless forms. As patriarchal social structures spread, the Goddess was hidden away. Yet she was never truly lost. While her likeness no longer shone proudly on buildings and in artwork, her essence remained—in the Earth and in every woman. Since it wasn’t possible to erase her completely, the many aspects of the Goddess were instead shamed, belittled, or even criminalized. Her power was quieted, but never extinguished.
Now, as we face immense challenges on Earth, the cry for the Maiden, Mother, and Crone grows louder. Her embodiment of deep compassion in times of destruction and death, and her ability to bring forth creation and rebirth, is being sought once again. There is a collective awakening, a renewed trust in the great mystery, and a longing for something that has been buried for so long: the feminine aspect of the divine.
She is one part of the whole, and in her absence, many have tried to fill the void through addiction, or even violence directed at the very mirrors that reflect her image. “Why weren’t you there for me? Why aren’t you here for me now?” the world cries out. This is the cry to the Goddess—the Great Mother.
I began working deeply with the Goddess over the past year, although this path has felt like a lifelong initiation. The journey became more noticeable in 2020, and her presence has only grown stronger since then. As I continue to study, acknowledge, and honor the Goddess, she has begun to emerge through my artwork. Not coincidentally, the first Goddess to lead me into this project of translating divine feminine energy into art was Lilith—the First Woman.
“Lilith” a digital art piece by Kara olson
Lilith has become a powerful symbol of female empowerment. Demonized in some religious traditions, she is said to have refused to lie beneath Adam and, for that act of defiance, was cast out and portrayed as dangerous and demonic. In truth, she is an aspect of the Great Mother who chose sovereignty—fierce, wise, and loving. Lilith holds the energy of freedom, creation, and assertiveness. Turn to her when you need a reminder of your own power.
After I created this piece, part of a Goddess series that will become an oracle deck next year (sign up for my newsletter to stay updated on its release!), I felt a strong nudge to put her image on a t-shirt. So I did. For each piece I create, I listen for how the Goddess wants to be honored and portrayed. My creative process is intuitive. I don’t plan; I follow the flow of the Goddess or energy I’m working with. Sometimes the energy will reveal an image beforehand (for Lilith, it was a black lily), and I’ll begin there, but I never truly know how the final piece will turn out. This practice brings me into a state of flow and trust in the mystery—two qualities of the divine feminine.
This journey has led me to share with you, so that you too can hold a piece of the Goddess. As I continue revealing her in her many forms, notice which stories and energies resonate most deeply with you. These Goddess artworks are here to reconnect, empower, and honor the sacred aspects that live within you.
Each piece is created with intention. Enjoy exploring the many forms of the Goddess, and may she continue to grow and bless your life.
❤️
Kara
karaolsonart.com