Godis Within

Artist: Pya Ashira

Medium: Acrylic on Canvas

Size: 20 in x 20 in

Year: 2025

Inspiration & Creation

Godis Within was born out of my spiritual journey and my deep connection to the Egyptian goddess Bast. Known throughout ancient Egypt as a protector, mother, and divine guide, Bast symbolizes fierce guardianship paired with nurturing love. She was worshiped as the goddess of home, fertility, and joy, often depicted with the head of a lioness or as a sacred cat, embodying both strength and grace.

This piece became a reflection of my own blossoming—an emergence into divine feminine power, opening and blooming like the lotus flower at the heart of the composition. It is both a tribute to the sacred energy of Bast and a personal declaration that the divine lives within me.

Technique & Artistic Approach

Painted in acrylic on canvas, this piece combines bold symbolism with vibrant, flowing color. The black cat is adorned in golden accents, sacred Egyptian jewels, and the ankh—the eternal key of life—set against a radiant background of purple and gold. The lotus flower, painted with delicate layers of pink and gold, radiates the theme of spiritual blossoming.

The butterfly floats gently in contrast, its golden form evoking freedom, transformation, and joy. Together, these elements create a visual narrative that celebrates both divine protection and the unfolding journey of self-discovery.

The Symbolism of Bast, the Lotus & the Butterfly

Bast: In Ancient Egypt, Bast (or Bastet) was celebrated as a mother goddess and protector, the guardian of women, children, and the spiritual home. She was associated with fertility, music, and joy, as well as fierce defense against negativity. Her presence in this painting anchors it in divine guardianship.

Lotus: A universal symbol of enlightenment and rebirth, the lotus grows from murky waters into radiant bloom. In this piece, it represents my own spiritual opening and the embodiment of goddess energy.

Butterfly: A timeless emblem of transformation, freedom, and soul evolution, the butterfly symbolizes my resilience—my ability to push through challenges and embrace the joy of becoming.

Artist’s Reflection

“Godis Within is both a play on words and a play on truth. God is Within me, always. This piece is my reminder of blossoming into my divine feminine power—protected by Bast, blooming like the lotus, and flying free like the butterfly. It is the sacred reflection of who I was always meant to be.”
— Pya Ashira

Copyright & Rights Reserved

This artwork, including all imagery and description, is an original creation by Pya Ashira and is protected under U.S. and international copyright laws. All rights reserved. No duplication, imitation, reproduction, or use in any form is permitted without the express written consent of the artist. Any unauthorized use will be subject to legal enforcement.