The cyclical nature of life itself— death and rebirth, included— take shape in symbols drawn from ancient Egyptian and Greek cultures in Merle Pace’s exhibit, “Interconnected Metamorphosis.” Pace’s time spent studying in Athens, Greece and her own experiences being near to death, both personally and that of her mother, have attracted her to the recurring motifs in nature and ancient art.

Moth Mother. Watercolor and gouache on cotton rag paper. 54” x 38”

Moths, which “emerge from their cocoons in a new body to a new world,” and scarab beetles, which were commonly used as amulets in ancient Egypt, feature throughout the exhibit. Cats, dogs, and birds are similarly transformed with fantastical details, including seeing eyes and flaming hearts. These are set against vibrant washes of color, giving the works of watercolor and gouache that appearance of a hand-dyed textile.

The pieces featured in the exhibit were all created on cotton rag paper. The choice of this material was intentional: cotton rag paper is made of the longer fibers in cotton textile remnants. Its construction of reused cotton fibers actually makes the paper stronger and more durable. A worthwhile rebirth, as it were.

Annie’s Scarab. Watercolor and gouache on cotton rag paper. 16” x 20”

Annie’s Scarab is a piece which includes crying eyes set inside the wings of a scarab beetle, which encircle a flaming heart, not unlike the construction of a claddagh ring. The piece references Pace’s mother, who passed away two years ago. The experience of being with her in the end of her life prompted Pace to see connections between nature and people, while leaning on love in the face of suffering.

Her mom’s “heart monitor [was reflected] in mountain ranges and her life cycle energy recycled in the roots of trees.” Heart scarabs, especially those with wings, symbolized the heart of the deceased in ancient Egyptian culture and were often placed on top of a mummy’s chest when buried.

The Mycenaean. Watercolor and gouache on cotton rag paper. 49” x 42”

“Interconnected Metamorphosis” will be on display in the Harrison Center’s Underground Gallery for the month of September. The exhibit can be viewed in-person by appointment and in our online gallery, where all pieces are available for purchase.