White Deer Graphic Novel

The White Deer symbol is associated with myths and lore from around the world. In 2023, I created a  White Deer artwork inspired by these stories, which is an important piece in my ongoing Goddess cyanotype series. 

As I contemplated this cultural phenomenon more deeply, a poem rose up within me, reflecting upon life's transitions, especially from childhood to adult. This piece of poetry inspired more artwork and a graphic novel concept was born. There is a classical flavor to the rhyming words with a hint of children's book prose.

I feel the timeless theme represented in White Deer's symbolic Rite of Passage is a timely fit with the world of popular art culture.  I intend to have the project finished by the end of 2025, along with a musical composition to accompany a multi-media event. Stay tuned.

Here is an excerpt from the poem, with a sketched panel from the graphic novel above.

White Deer by Greg Spalenka

In the depths of nature's core
A truth awaits, forevermore
That life's enchantment never ends
I evolve, transform, transcend

Innocence is a mystic trance
A childhood's eternal dance
Where laughter echoes, free and bright
Hearts whispering with delight

Forever young, in morning's light
Waxing old at twilight
Growing up is a heavy weight
Burdened with weary fate

Childhood Dream

I awoke, but my eyes were sleeping
Lucid, yet still was dreaming,
There was a pond, an ancient mirror
A girl, then a ghost white deer

Startled by this vision,
An omen's premonition
A message for me foretold
Be ready, be strong, be bold

This rite of passage – girl to crone
Ancient wisdom, we learned to own
This looming fate was much to near
I do not want to face this fear

The sun, reborn in its glory
Renewed its symphonic story
My dream vanished like morning dew
Radiance lit a youthful view

Fauna played, birds alighted
World’s of dark and light collided
While mushrooms rose in sodden nooks
My berries grew by babbling brooks

Innocence is a mystic trance
In light of day, where shadows dance
The gifts of nature can be found
In verdant woods of fabled ground