Probably the best-known goal of alchemy was the Transmutation: the transformation of base metals such as lead into gold. But it was not just about material changes. Alchemists strove for the Philosopher's Stonea mystical object that was supposed to give eternal life as well as bring spiritual enlightenment. This process was often described as an inner journey in which the alchemist himself was purified and transformed - a metaphor for self-realization and enlightenment.

Symbolic meaning

On a deeper level, alchemy stands for change, connection and wholeness. It is the art of merging two or more different elements - whether material or spiritual - to create something new and higher.

Symbolic alchemy is not only about the transformation of matter, but also about inner work. The union of opposites such as light and darkness, male and female, spirit and matter serves as a symbol for the balance that we can find within ourselves and in the world.

Alchemy as a metaphor for inner transformation

In modern times, alchemy has taken on a new meaning. It stands for the process of integrating different aspects of our being in order to establish a deeper connection with ourselves and the world.

Duality and unity

We live in a world full of contrasts: Day and night, strength and gentleness, wildness and tameness. These dualities shape our lives and our perception. We often feel forced to choose one side, to limit ourselves to one facet of our being. But alchemy teaches us that these opposites do not have to be separate - they belong together and can complement each other.

One example of this is the balance between light and shadow. Without darkness, we would not appreciate the light; without challenges, we could not develop strength. It is about accepting the apparent opposites and seeing them as part of a greater whole.

The choice of our facets

Alchemy also means that we can decide for ourselves which facets we want to live in any given moment. We are not one-dimensional; we carry countless characteristics, feelings and potentials within us.

The question is: Which elements do we want to combine to create our unique inner alchemy? Perhaps we want to live our gentleness today and our strength tomorrow. Or we decide to show several facets at the same time and create a powerful balance.

I myself have experienced countless times that I have been able to subjectively change a situation completely for myself by choosing to look at it in a different light. Instead of focusing on the negative or the "mistake" of a situation (e.g. a memory of an experience from the past), you can turn the situation to your advantage if you are prepared to take something positive from it - e.g. by asking yourself what you were able to learn from it despite all your efforts and what the hidden gift behind it is.

The alchemy series: uniting opposites and creating something new

In my series Alchemy I realize exactly this idea: The pictures often show two or more elements that at first glance appear to be opposites, but actually share a deeper connection.

Dualities are often juxtaposed in the works, which merge into a unity in the course of the creative process. Examples of this are

• Day and nightThese two aspects are inextricably linked. Without the darkness of night, day could not exist.
• Sun and moonWhile the sun stands for energy and drive, the moon symbolizes intuition and calm. Both complement each other and are essential for a harmonious life.
• Wildness and tamenessThey appear to be facing each other, but have you ever observed a domestic cat? It can be both a "cuddly kitten" and in the next moment become a predatory cat when it discovers and catches a mouse!
• Gentleness and strengthThese apparent opposites are actually two sides of the same coin. True strength can be gentle, and gentleness often requires immense inner strength.

In addition to these external contrasts, my series also incorporates inner states. Feelings such as calm and passion, clarity and creativity are symbolically represented in the pictures. The aim is to create a connection between the inner and outer worlds - an alchemy that encompasses the entire being.

The importance of alchemy for your life

The pictures in my series are intended to convey a message to you: Everything you are is valuable. You don't have to choose sides. The apparent opposites in your life are not contradictions - they are parts of a greater whole.

The alchemy in my works also invites you not to see things you want to change as "wrong" and fight against them, but to take a different point of view and recognize your strength in the situation. Turn weaknesses into strengths by becoming aware: You always have a choice about how you see things!

You can find all previous works in this series here: