Reimagining the Turtle
Across cultures and centuries, turtles have carried powerful meanings. They are symbols of the earth, of endurance, of cosmic balance, and of renewal. In Asian traditions, the turtle embodies the connection between heaven and earth, while many Native American communities regard the turtle as sacred, representing Grandmother Earth and marking time with the patterns of its shell. These enduring associations highlight the turtle as a universal emblem of patience, resilience, and the cycle of life.
In Reimagining the Turtle, artists Janet Kozachek, Susan Livingston, and Olga Yukhno offer their own creative interpretations of this timeless figure. Through sculpture, fiber, and mixed media, they explore the turtle as both subject and metaphor, once ancient and ever new. For some, the turtle’s shell becomes a site of design and storytelling, its form a natural geometry inviting reflection. Others emphasize the fragility of life, transforming the shell into a poignant reminder of loss and transience. Still others celebrate the turtle’s journey, from nest to ocean, as a living emblem of hope and renewal.
Together, these works invite us to pause, reflect, and consider the deep connections between nature, spirit, and imagination. They remind us that even in our fast-paced world, the turtle continues to carry stories worth reimagining.
