Topography A Visual Memoir Mapping The Path to Your Most Authentic Self

By Allegra S. Harrington

Topography is a highly unique visual memoir calling on the wisdom of animals, personal symbology, and the raw, honest storytelling of a soulful artist who dared to start her life over by following her intuition, her sleeping dreams, and the unmistakable messages from animals and nature. Harrington shares stories of synchronicity, hope, and rebirth through sharp memories, vivid dreams, vibrant mixed media art, and a unique personal map-making system that she developed herself to help her make sense of life's landscapes. As she throws her arms wide open to invite readers into her world, one woman's physical and metaphysical journey powerfully speaks for the universal feminine path of finding freedom through one's artistic gifts.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Apr 8, 2024
• ISBN: 9798350952001

Allegra S. Harrington

Allegra Harrington received her BA from the University of New Mexico in Art and Anthropology. In the 70's she became a textile designer in New York and furthered her design skills at FIT. In 1984-1990 she established The Designer's loft Gallery and her jewelry business. Her Sculpture to Wear collections emerge from Native American spirituality, European architecture and rituals from India. Her multi-media creations combine her photography, aluminum screen, watercolors and natural found elements. In 2018 through her own Whale's Tail Publications wrote Topography a highly unique visual memoir calling on the wisdom of animals, personal symbiology, and raw honest storytelling . Through her sharp dreams, unmistakable messages from nature and animals she shares her rebirth and hope with a personal map- making system that she developed herself to make sense of life's landscapes. This journey is revealed through vibrant mixed media art and poetry to encourage women to connect with finding freedom through their artistic expression and be a witness to the divine female paradigm now on earth. Welcome to the enchanting world of Allegra Harrington, a visionary artist, author, and transformative guide based in the vibrant hills of Asheville, NC. With an artistic spirit that knows no bounds, Allegra has dedicated her life to creating works that resonate deeply with the human experience. Allegra's artistic journey unfolds in every stroke of her brush and every thoughtfully crafted word. Her collection, "Artistry Unveiled," is a testament to her ability to seamlessly blend emotion, color, and imagination into captivating masterpieces. From abstract landscapes that evoke a sense of wonder to intricately detailed visual narratives, each piece is a reflection of Allegra's boundless creativity and passion for storytelling through art. At the heart of Allegra's literary contributions is her book, "Topography: Mapping your Path to your most Authentic Self - a Visual Memoir." This transformative work transcends traditional storytelling, offering readers a unique exploration of their inner selves through a harmonious blend of words and visuals. In this visual memoir, Allegra Harrington guides readers on a journey of self-discovery, encouraging them to embrace their authenticity and forge their own path. The mystical realms come alive in Allegra's creation, "Gaia's Wisdom Oracle Deck and Divine Affirmations." Through beautifully illustrated cards and profound affirmations, she opens a portal to the ancient wisdom of Gaia, guiding seekers towards a deeper connection with the universe. This divine deck is more than a tool; it's a spiritual companion for those on a journey of self-reflection and enlightenment. Beyond her art and literary pursuits, Allegra extends her transformative touch through SkyGirls TM, a series of classes designed to empower girls and women of all ages. These classes serve as a sanctuary for those navigating the anxious feelings of development, fostering self-discovery, and providing valuable tools for personal growth. As Allegra Harrington continues to inspire from her Asheville, NC base, her creations serve as beacons of light, guiding individuals towards self-discovery, authenticity, and inner peace. Join her on this remarkable journey, where art, literature, and empowerment converge to create a tapestry of beauty and wisdom.

Book preview

CHAPTER ONE

The Beginning

I’ll begin at the beginning. It all started when I had sold my house and the real estate agent told me I couldn’t afford the cottage that I so desired. I told her, But you don’t understand, I have to live in a cottage, in the woods, with large windows. She told me it wasn’t possible in my price range. But about a week later, she called me and said, Can you meet me after work? I have a listing near the woods.

On a cold dreary day, we pulled into the short driveway. The ferns were turning dark brown but that did not phase me, as I knew how fanciful they would be the spring and summer. They were huddled and welcoming in their embankment, which led to a wooden front door with a brass tail of a whale as a knocker. To the left of the door was a rack filled with wood, next to what looked like a large picture window.

After maneuvering the keys, we stepped into the cottage together. The large room was musty and cold with the curtains drawn. The architecture inside was enchanting with its white painted rock fireplace all the way up to the high ceiling. I knew in my heart this was my new home. After the roller coaster of having to sell my home, I was being rewarded by my Angels finding this woodland retreat.

The whale’s tail on the door

As we walked into the flagstone dining area, I pulled a curtain aside to find another large picture window. To our left was a step up to a living room. I noticed, inlaid into the wooden floor, a straight series of 3 dozen pennies in a row. When i looked more closely, I saw that they were actually dowels, but I called them my pennies from heaven. To me, they were reiterating how much we must trust God with all temporary environments in faith and gratitude for a happy destiny; after all we are not in charge. Near my pennies from heaven was the fireplace which felt so familiar, just like the one my grandmother had up on Indian Lake in the Adirondacks.

We turned on a few more lights to see the tiny retro kitchen with its diminutive oven and darling 40’s cafe curtains. The kitchen door lead to a small wrap-around porch with built in seating all around. I recognized the rhododendrons, raspberry bushes and mountain laurel from my youth growing up in New England.

On the other side of the fireplace was the only bedroom surrounded by high ceilings and a tiny bathroom. I could see that I could fit in a workbench to make my art near the light