The Green Man
Barbara A.  Kelly-Risk

Barrel Location: Earthwood Furniture, Nicholasville Rd, Lexington

Artist’s Interpretation: According to Ancient Celtic Myth, the Greenman rules the Woods and all Wild things.  The duality of the Greenman manifests in the Oak King and the Holly King.  At Winter Solstice on 21 December (the shortest day of the year), the Holly King and the Oak King battle to see who will reign over the Woods until Summer Solstice.  In this battle, the Oak King always wins and rules over the “lighter” 6 months of the year.  At Summer Solstice on 21 June (the longest day of the year), they battle again and the Holly King wins.   Regardless of who is ruling, the Greenman just seems like a good guy to have watching one’s garden from his window in the rain barrel.

Bio:  I have been drawing/painting since I was little and I really enjoy seeing what comes out of these projects in the end…..ya just never know until they are finished.  I am an environmentalist and have worked for the Kentucky Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Water Frankfort Regional Office as an Inspector since 1997.  This office has worked with Bluegrass PRIDE in the past cleaning up the environment and participating with other environmental programs.  It is an honor to be able to work with them on this project knowing that the results will be benefiting the world in which we live.

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