ARTIST STATEMENT

My artist and mystic name is Heather Marie Aqualis* (my family’s last name is Owens). I’ve been a life-long arts enthusiast with photography as my main medium. I come from a family that loves and collects rocks. I’ve worked as an arts administrator and/or higher education for many years.

I enjoy learning anything related to the holistic and metaphysical realm including acupressure, astrology, chakras, clair capabilities, crystals, energy healing such as Reiki, essential oils, oracle cards, and sound bowls. Over 12 years ago, I started using crystals in a healing way. I have hundreds in my collection that I collaborate with for a variety of reasons, including chakra alignments, crystal grids, and Reiki. 

Except for the snake artwork, all of the photos in this series are from my collection and they have been energized with Reiki. I started creating the crystal series in the late spring of 2020 when I needed an arts outlet. I have a kaleidoscope-inspired software that I bought over 12 years ago at a quilting fair that I used originally for flowers, fireworks, abstract art, and more. Once I upload the photo, I move the repeating section on parts of the photo and decide on the pattern. To amplify the energy of the crystal, I have the artwork printed on metallic or pearlescent paper.    

Transformation is based on one of my favorite pieces called “Luminous Labradorite.” Labradorite comes in multiple colors and depending on the angle, you can see its flash/glow. Labradorite is known for its transformative, magic/psychic, and protection properties. It is used with the throat, third eye, and crown chakras. In addition, I included a snake artwork from a mosaic in Dublin to reference the Year of the Snake and transformation, healing, and the divine feminine properties.

Etsy.com/shop/HeatherOwensDesigns 

IG: heather_marie_aqualis | Pinterest: owensheatherm

*Aqualis incorporates multiple symbolism. “Aqua” is short for aquamarine (Pisces/ March birthstone) and Aquarius (water-bringer). “Lis” (phonetic - Lee) is French for lily. Aqualis references Water Lily along with some other meanings. In western Astrology, I’m a Pisces sun, Leo moon, and Cancer rising. Water is my most influential element with a lot of planets in air.