A tribute to Hestia As an army wife, the importance of what a home is, and providing a safe place to return to has major significance. My painting is a modern symbolic tribute to Hestia The goddess of hearth and home. Hestia does not have a long history of fantastical tales like the other gods and goddesses. Hestia is known as a modest goddess. Preferring to stay behind the scenes. Her life seems mundane in comparison to the others, but she is the one who is in charge of the overseeing the sacred fire and trusted to maintain the family home on Mt. Olympus. The Olympic torch, born from the sacred fire still represents world wide unity. Showing all of us that we can come together, despite our differences. The mirror above the mantle reflecting a stocked pantry, to fill the stomachs of those returning home from their own adventures. The painting of a key next to the pantry to show trust. As Zeus trusted Hestia with the keys to Olympus. While he and the other gods and goddess were taking part in their legends. The empty bowls, which were the vessels of nourishment for those that have just departed. The fire to welcome back the occupants. Where they will gather around to tell their tales, fill their stomachs and warm their souls. Hestia is there, in her humble way, maintaining the flames as she has done since the beginning. She is the builder and the keeper of their sanctuary. What Hestia provides is not just a shelter or a meal. She provides a stable foundation, which enables the others to seek out risks, and adventures with the understanding that no matter what the results are, they will always have a place to call home.