Celtic Design
Celtic culture dates to the Iron Age, a thousand years before Christ showed up on the scene. Some historians believe it started somewhere around where Germany is today and spread with the Celts, a nomadic people. The Celts spread around the Mediterranean and across Europe and became prevalent throughout the British Isles.
My bloodline is Northern European, English, Scottish, and Irish with a touch of German and North Africa, according to my genetics.
So, I focused on the history of this beautiful, meaningful art form across these regions.
For centuries, Celtic design has served as a visual language of profound meaning, connecting generations and weaving stories of heritage and resilience. But it is more than just patterns; it is a testament to human creativity, ingenuity, and the enduring power of connection.
Strength & Connection
My latest Celtic design. Learnt lots of lessons with the first design and think I have a process and approach now to create more of these. My second piece is broken into two different thoughts.
The Crow and Sword - represent a new beginning based on the knowledge gained over previous lives. The sword is to signify protection and a fierce determination to overcome any obstacle in this new quest.
The Tree of Life - used by many cultures and in my case means connection both with those close to me and to those who have passed. Spiritually we are all connected and should be more aware of this.
This artwork is primarily Ink and watercolour, with both Gold and Silver acrylic pens for the metallic objects. 24cm x 31cm
Hope you like this.
Wisdom • Perseverance • Knowledge • Enlightenment.
The Salmon and Celtic Cross
The Salmon - In Irish Celtic mythology, the Salmon of Knowledge represents wisdom, inspiration, learning and the pursuit of understanding. The salmon’s journey upstream can also symbolise perseverance—the willingness to struggle against the current in the search for something greater.
The Celtic Cross - The Celtic Cross traditionally combines the Christian cross with Celtic artistic traditions such as intricate knotwork and circular forms. In a symbolic artwork, it can represent faith, spirituality, continuity, connection and the eternal cycle of life.
The Salmon and Cross Together
“The journey toward wisdom requires courage to swim against the current, faith to continue the journey, and an open mind to discover what lies beyond.”
Ink, Watercolour and Acrylic pen 24cm x 32cm
Transformation, strength & courage
The Crow and Sword represent support for my battles in the past, present and future.
The crow is the guardian, the sword the source of its power, and the Trinity Knot becomes the philosophy behind that power.
Ink, Watercolour paint and Acrylic pen for the metal elements.
Will be framed in an 11inches x 14inches white frame with white mat board.
Strength, Wisdom & Protection
“Eternal strength, wisdom and protection - the courage to face adversity, the wisdom gained through experience, and the enduring connection between past, present and future.”
The dragon represents strength, courage, protection, sovereignty and ancient wisdom, as well as overcoming challenges.
The Trinity knot (Triquetra) represents eternity, unity and interconnectedness—often interpreted as past, present and future, life, death and rebirth, or in Christian symbolism, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Ink, Watercolour and Acrylic pen on A4 watercolour paper
Courage & Protection
In Celtic design, the crow—frequently interchangeable with the raven—is a powerful symbol of war, fate, prophecy, and transformation. It is most famously associated with The Morrígan, the Celtic triple goddess of sovereignty and battle, who frequently took the form of a crow to influence the outcome of conflict. In artistic expressions, ranging from ancient Iron Age artifacts to modern Celtic jewellery, the crow serves as a protective talisman, a mark of resilience, and a bridge to the spiritual world
In my piece, the two crows work together to look after whoever possesses them. One has an extra gift; can you find it?
Watercolour painting with metal acrylic pen highlights on A4 watercolour paper.
The Wolf Guardian — Protection • Loyalty • Instinct • Guidance
“The guardian who watches through the darkness, guided by instinct and wisdom, standing steadfast in protection of what is sacred.”
Watercolour paint, graphite pencil, Ink and acrylic pen. A4 watercolour paper.
Tree of Life
The Tree of Life is a universal archetype that spans across world mythologies, major religions, and science, representing connection, immortality, and the origin of all living things.
Celtic Traditions: Known as Crann Bethadh, the Celtic Tree of Life represents harmony and balance. Celts believed trees were guardians and gateways to the spirit world, bridging heaven and earth.
Painted on a circular canvas my Tree represents as follows;
An energetic exploration of the universal Tree of Life archetype. Painted on a circular canvas to symbolize eternity, this piece contrasts a deep, rooted foundation with a vibrant, shimmering canopy against a luminous background sun. A celebration of growth, connection, and the cyclical nature of existence.
Acrylic painting on a circular canvas, 410 mm in diameter.