Hearth: Love, Connection + Life
What speaks to the heart more than an open fire on a cold night? The flames dancing in the air, creating warmth and comfort. There is something about fires that draws us near, that makes us feel connected to the natural world. At WICGAN we explore how art and design can be used to create sacred space. By understanding the symbology of the hearth, we can learn how to create places that nurture our bodies, minds, and spirits.
This ancient symbol has been used to represent everything from domesticity and warmth to spirituality and creative inspiration. Traditionally, a hearth was a hub that life centred around. For some, a sacred space where offerings were made to the gods or spirits. A place of security, love, social connection, fertility and life. So what does this powerful symbol mean for you?
Fire is a purifying force. Have you ever seen a traditional peat fire? The flames dance and flicker, casting an ethereal light. The smell is distinctive. Dried peat moss, gives off a smoky, woody scent and creates a unique flame. There’s something special about the warmth of a peat fire — it’s long-burning and emits a gentle, soothing heat. The peat is literally cut like earthy chocolate blocks from the land. The “flittin”, cutting of the peats, is a tradition in itself. I find them calming and meditative. They connect me to my Shetland heritage, the land and the spirits of my ancestors.
Traditional Shetland peat fire and hearth in an old Crofthouse - Photo: Jacqueline Bates
“Hearth and fire” is a term that has been used throughout history to describe the creative process. It’s often associated with artists, designers, and other creative types who are able to channel their passion into their work. For me, the term has always had a spiritual connotation. It’s about more than just the act of creating something; it’s about connecting with something greater than ourselves.
Meet the WICGAN Hearth Collection.
It’s artwork, it’s cryptocurrency, and it might just be the most spiritual set of NFTs you’ll ever collect. Hearth represents the life-giving energy that connects us all. They are beautiful pieces, but they also have a message that we all need to hear: that we are connected, and that we each have the power to make a difference. When we create digital art, to us there is a sense that we are also releasing a part of our soul into the world. Come explore the magic of hearth and fire!