Take flight with this powerful symbol of wisdom and intuition. The great horned owl #owlsofinstagram #artappreciation #wildlifeart  #mysticart #owllovers #artlovers

Soar through the night with this majestic great horned owl.  
This captivating digital artwork by Jimmy Widegren captures the essence of the owl, a powerful and revered creature in many cultures. With its piercing gaze and outstretched wings, the owl seems to embody wisdom, mystery, and the untamed spirit of the night.

Widegren's use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and drama, drawing the viewer into the owl's world. The artwork is a beautiful reminder of the power and beauty of the natural world.

This is a pice in the "Mystic River" series.

The owl appears to be a great horned owl (Bubo virginianus). It is one of the largest owl species in North America and is known for its distinctive ear tufts, which resemble horns.

The Symbolism of Owls Across Cultures

Owls: Messengers of Wisdom, Death, and Transformation

With their piercing eyes, silent flight, and mysterious aura, owls have captivated human imagination for millennia. Their symbolism varies greatly across cultures and historical contexts, but some common themes emerge.

Wisdom and Knowledge

• Ancient Greece:** Associated with Athena, goddess of wisdom, symbolizing knowledge, learning, and strategic thinking.
• Native American cultures:** Viewed as wise figures offering guidance and knowledge, or associated with prophecy and the spirit world.
• China:** Traditionally seen as symbols of scholarship and academic success.

Death and the Underworld

• Europe (Middle Ages): Linked with death and misfortune, associated with witches and graveyards, likely due to their nocturnal nature.
• Celtic cultures:** Believed by some to be messengers of the underworld, carrying souls to the afterlife.
• Japan:** In ancient times, associated with death, but in modern times, symbolize good luck and protection.

Transition and Transformation

• Native American cultures:** Represent change, transformation, and the ability to see through darkness into the light.
• Hinduism:** In some traditions, associated with Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and prosperity, symbolizing positive change and new beginnings.

Additional Symbolisms

Owl symbolism varies widely across regions and cultures. Here are some brief examples:

• Africa:** Omens of bad luck or illness in some cultures, associated with magic and sorcery in others.
• Mesoamerica (Aztec, Mayan): Linked to powerful deities, symbolizing aspects like warfare, the night, and the moon.

**Remember, these are broad generalizations, and specific owl symbolism can vary greatly within cultures and communities.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6VD92ZIbx4&t=281s 

Mystic River Owl