Mount Nas

During our trip to Naxos we were able to rent four wheelers and drive to Mount Zas. This is the highest point of Naxos and the Cyclades. From the top you are able to identify the surrounding islands and it is said on an exceptionally clear day you can see Asia Minor. The beginning of the hike begins at Aries spring which is clear and drinkable spring water that they fill with goldfish who are able to live in it year round. You’ll also see the cave that is said to be where Zeus spent his childhood.
According to Greek mythology Zeus was the youngest son of Titans Cronus and Rhea. Cronus fearing that one of his children would overthrow him from prophecy swallowed his children immediately after birth. After Zeus was born his mother Rhea gave her husband a rock disguised as a baby. Rhea sent Zeus to Naxos, where at this peak of Mount Zas an eagle gave Zeus thunder which enabled him to cut open his fathers stomach to release his siblings who would all later over throw Cronus and the other Titans. This mountain is filled with amazing flora and fauna. It is filled with wildflowers on your way to the top, such as poppies and dragon lilies. You can also hear goats and their bells tied to their neck trotting in the distance. There is something so magical in thinking of a young boy like Zeus, growing up amongst the goats, running bare foot with the dragon lilies and poppies. Being able to see out into all the Cyclades. What a childhood.
You can see some references in this painting-the eye can be up to your thoughts. Evil eyes in Greece is said to reflect and ward off evil but to grow up without parents knowing that someday you would have to kill your own father, who tried to kill you, might bring you tears to fill a spring full of goldfish. I’m not ready for the week just yet-thank you for letting me escape some more before reality hits. This is an acrylic on recycled wood.