αναχώρηση By Maria Madonna Constantinides

Dimensions: 20x40inches 

Mixed media on canvas

Nike of Samothrace. Art historians say she is landing on a ship to announce a victory. But I have always imagined her taking off. Her wings are spread; her body is in anticipatory motion. Maybe her departure – αναχώρηση – is equally important to her arrival. Mythological Nike is in command of her destiny and yours, soaring higher than the Olympians in freedom and power. 

Her form is less than what she once was. Left without a face, without arms, broken, and aged, she perseveres, demanding our attention. She is feminine beauty, grace, resilience. She is breathtaking. Now her statue stands, stagnant; the sea and sky are out of reach. 

But she is freedom, awaiting her departure. 

Maybe she is a self-portrait.