Written by Jo-Anne
For more than eight years, beginning in 2016, my commitment has revolved around researching and immersing myself in the world of Goddess attires. With this newfound purpose, I wholeheartedly embraced the task of crafting Goddess costumes, as well as creating exquisite jewelry and accessories. I recognized that this approach offered a superior means of connecting with the Goddesses. Instead of relying solely on descriptions or sketches, being able to visualize them in all their grandeur became paramount.
By presenting a comprehensive visual representation of the Goddess, complete with clothing, accessories, and intricate gear, my goal is to extend an invitation for individuals to engage with these creations on a deeper level. I want them to have the opportunity to see, touch, feel, and even smell the materials used. This multi-sensory approach underlines the importance of showcasing these attires in fashion shows, at special events, and within women’s circles.
By engaging all the senses, we ensure a more profound and enduring impact on the viewer. This holistic experience not only captivates their senses but also serves as a powerful educational tool. It raises awareness and imparts knowledge about the significance of these representations while fostering a sense of collective well-being and connection.
My Sacred Space
Throughout these eight years, there were moments when I found myself overwhelmed, often isolated within the confines of my creation room. It was a room adorned with my cherished collection of Goddess statues and glistening crystals, where the presence of my Goddess altar infused the space with sacred energy. I forged a profound connection within this room with the Goddesses, which became my creative process’s anchor. It was a realm where the ethereal felt tangible, and nothing was more real than the moments spent within those walls.
During the early stages of this journey, I faced the additional challenge of cancer. Paradoxically, crafting Goddess attires became a source of strength, imbuing me with hope and contributing positively to my healing process. It was a true blessing amidst adversity.
Crafting Goddess Attires: The Most Remarkable Unveilings
Before embarking on any Goddess attire projects, my initial step involved thorough online research (typically involved a minimum of 40 hours on average). I sought information and often encountered visual representations that guided my design concepts. The internet emerged as my primary resource, with platforms like Pinterest serving as valuable references. Additionally, I delved into resources such as Goddess oracle cards and books, which provided insights and ideas.
In a peculiar twist of fate, I began crafting the Goddess costume and soon discovered that divine inspiration guided my every move. It led me to perform each task one step at a time, often uncertain about what the following action would entail. It was as if my hands were merely vessels flowing effortlessly through each task, driven by an unseen force.
During my work sessions, what I initially envisioned frequently evolved into something subtly different, taking on a life of its own. There were moments when I purchased clothing, jewelry, or crystals with a particular Goddess in mind, only to find they were destined for another deity altogether. This pattern repeated itself consistently with every piece I created, leaving me with the overwhelming sense that something greater than myself was at play.
It was as though I was being gently steered by divine guidance, shaping each creation in a way that went beyond my conscious intentions. This profound experience extended beyond the crafting of the costumes, transcending into the realm of photoshoots, photo touch-ups, and even the development of accompanying text.
This journey filled me with an immense sense of gratitude, for I had been granted the privilege of witnessing the mysterious and beautiful interplay of creativity and divine guidance.
The Artistry and Challenges of Crafting Goddess Attires
On average, crafting a complete Goddess attire demanded approximately 80 hours of meticulous work. This timeframe does not encompass the hours dedicated to online research for materials. The 80-hour count encompassed various aspects, such as the intricate construction of headrests, jewelry and footwear enhancements, and adding appliqués and distinctive Goddess elements to the clothing. Using challenging materials such as beaded fabric and delicate and unyielding textiles posed significant difficulties in sewing costumes, contributing to the extended timeline.
In numerous instances, I found myself delving into uncharted territory, having to devise patterns for headrests and clothing while exploring innovative ways to replicate specific materials. Let me offer some insights into a few of these challenges:
The journey was not without its trials and tribulations. I recall an incident where I pushed a sewing machine to its limits while stitching the Phoenix costume using feather-glued lace. The result? I inadvertently burned out the sewing machine. Hot glue was another nemesis, causing me to suffer multiple burns before I stumbled upon fabric glue, a versatile adhesive that revolutionized my creative process. The tools of the trade, such as sewing machines, serger machines, and fabric glue, were indispensable allies throughout the development of these Goddess apparel. Their contribution cannot be overstated.
To add to my experience, I frequently resorted to hand-sewing numerous intricate components, as the sewing machine proved inadequate for the task. Amidst fatigue and lapses in attention, I endured multiple pricked fingers from needles, accidental cuts from sharp scissors, and moments of discouragement as the work seemed unending.
It’s essential to clarify that the designs and craftsmanship of these Goddess attires were deeply personal, as I received guidance from the divine throughout the creative process. However, I did not undertake this journey alone. My dearest friends provided invaluable support and assistance, including Hélène Riendeau, Line Brousseau, and Chantal Tremblay. Nadine emerged as my most loyal supporter, offering guidance on material selection and unwavering encouragement once each costume was completed.
Embracing Flaws: The Beauty of Imperfect Goddess Attires
My perfectionist tendencies often led me to scrutinize my work, magnifying its imperfections. However, over time, I learned to embrace these imperfections. As someone who had never taken formal sewing lessons, apart from the guidance passed down from my mother, I had a rudimentary understanding of sewing that primarily involved stitching straightforwardly. Nowadays, I’ve encountered invaluable sewing tips on platforms like YouTube that I wasn’t aware of back then.
Yet, in the grand scheme of things, what truly matters is that we present Goddess attires in their finest representation, where any flaws are imperceptible to the observer. This journey has imparted a profound life lesson: it is perfectly acceptable to be imperfect.
I must emphasize that the attires I’ve created represent my interpretation of the Goddesses based on the materials available to me. They may not necessarily align with the authentic representations of the Goddesses, particularly in the case of Nation Goddesses. Given the resources at my disposal, I aimed to capture the essence and nuance of their authenticity as closely as possible. When viewing these creations, please bear this in mind and approach them with an awareness of the creative journey that brought them to life.