Elemental art

In ancient Greece, philosophers believed that the universe was made up of four elements: Earth, Air, Fire and Water, with everything on the planet being constructed of a combination of the four. This theory was so strongly believed that it permeated science and medicine, influencing culture far and wide for over two thousand years.

Over the centuries each element has developed cultural associations, making them symbolic of so much more than their material. Zodiac signs, mystical figures, seasonal changes and even Shakespeare’s literary concepts all reference the quartet, with each element linking to personality traits, feelings and traditions.

Now of course, we know the atoms that enable our existence are far more complex, but the prior concepts of Earth, Air, Fire and Water still resonate to this day. Being able to take intricacies and simplify them is a very human habit which we mirror in our daily lives; aiming to bring a sense of order to anything that is complex.

So, with the changing seasons, should you want to clear the decks and start afresh, you aren’t alone! Get excited to revamp and refresh your interior by scrolling through our selection of Earth, Air, Fire and Water inspired artworks and their interpretive meanings:

Earth

Earth is a nurturing and fertile element, providing instinctual grounding and strength even as it shifts and adapts over time; no wonder it represents stability and loyalty. Through its deep greens and organic shapes, art inspired by this element helps neutralise and balance your space and is ideal to compliment seating areas and hallways for calm relaxation.

Air

Opposite the Earth is Air! Fast and fickle, the element of Air can be impractical and restless, continuously needing movement and stimulation. Air allows for thoughts and dreams, being non-conforming and needing space to literally breath. These artworks are made to inspire and communicate large truths to their viewers and would make for lovely gifts to those you hold close. Find a spot to place your Air-inspired purchases where you can look to when you’re feeling disjointed and need fresh inspiration.

Fire

Fire can destroy everything in its path, but when harnessed, is one of the most transformative and innovative of the elements. Jumping from one end of the spectrum to the other, Fire represents the passion and energy one wishes to bring to their life through action. It’s a deep and profound element that often doesn’t think before acting, getting it into hot water, but Fire is an extremely honest and expressive element ideal to inspire a showstopping artwork, which could even be the sole piece you need in a room, being so magnetic.

Water

Water is authentic, emotional and can be intuitive to a fault, but it is essential to achieving a happy, balanced and beautiful life. The spirit and soul that emanate from the cleansing powers of Water show us how to be kind and compassionate and act as reflections of our true selves. These artworks are best situated where you may want to be contemplative or reclusive so that you can take some time to figure things out and plunge into the depths of your own mind. 

Should you wish to connect, breeze, power or dive through even more elemental artwork, we’ve created a collection of pieces perfect to inspire you. Follow the link below and enjoy even more Earth, Air, Fire and Water artworks in our Four Elements collection.

Credits
Main image: Irina Cumberland, Little Rainbows 6, oil, £3,910, Signet Contemporary Art