The Spinsterz X Elemental Dancer
The Power and Beauty of Antlers
By Samantha Mixan
When walking through the world, do you notice the small gifts that come your way? If you’re like me, you might find joy in collecting small stones, shapely sticks, dropped feathers, colorful leaves, and other natural items. These items are reminders of nature’s magic, each one carrying a history of its own. Of these treasures, when I found my first deer antler on the ground, I was amazed at its unique beauty and story of the deer. Throughout my life, I've felt a strong connection to the natural world, and as a dancer and flow artist, utilizing antlers as tools to enhance my performances feels intuitive.
Antlers are more than a natural artifact; they are potent symbols of change, growth, and renewal. No two antlers are exactly alike, each one telling a story of the deer that it came from. Most deer species shed their antlers in late winter, beginning a cycle of regrowth that reflects the seasons of nature. This process begins with the antlers growing as small stubs covered in soft velvet, which provides the blood supply necessary for growth. Over time, the prongs grow and elongate, splitting into forks at the ends. As the antlers mature, the velvet is shed, revealing strong and sharp points that the deer uses to attract mates and spar with rivals. By late winter, the antlers are dropped from the deer’s head, only to be replaced by larger and more intricate antlers with each passing year. Unlike horns, which are permanent, antlers are regrown each year, representing a significant energetic investment for the deer. This annual cycle of growth and shedding makes antlers the fastest-growing bone in the animal kingdom.
Flow art often involves props that are geometric in shape, perfectly balanced, and meticulously crafted to create precise patterns. In contrast, antlers, particularly when used as fire props, bring a wild, organic energy to the dance. Forged by nature rather than by human hands, each pair of antlers is entirely unique. Even closely matched pairs differ slightly in weight, size, shape, and number of points. This individuality makes antlers different than the traditional fire props that flow artists often use. The annual cycle of growth and shedding makes them also a very sustainable sourced bone — no animals were harmed in the making of these props!
When dancing with fire antlers, I’ve found that I don’t need to move as much or perform intricate spins with them; the antlers speak for themselves. Their presence commands attention, and my movements serve to enhance their voice rather than overpower it. Those who witness the dances respond energetically, as it touches a deep part of the soul that longs to live in stasis and harmony, like the stag does.
On a symbolic level, antlers embody the ability to grow and transform, reflecting personal development and the potential for change. Their intricate cycles of growth and renewal are a reminder that we too can shed old parts of ourselves and grow anew. They represent the fierceness, grace, and elegance of the stag. Dancing with fire antlers allows you to channel this energy, merging the wild beauty of nature with the expressive power of dance. There are many interpretations of what this potent totem means, and I invite you to discover the meaning and message it holds for you.
Incorporating fire antlers into your flow art practice is not just about mastering a new prop— it’s about connecting with nature on a deeper level, honoring the cycles of life and the stories that these antlers hold. Whether you are performing for an audience or simply dancing for yourself, fire antlers are a symbol that can inspire and captivate, reflecting the profound connection between human creativity and the natural world.
When sourcing your antlers, look for the naturally shed nubs on the bottom of the antler. There will be a small bump where the antler was connected to the deer’s head. Antlers are found on the ground and in shrub wherever deer tend to frequent in the wintertime. I’ve been able to find antlers on the ground because I grew up in a rural area where deer are in abundance. If you live in a rural area, you may be able to find antlers for yourself if you search during the times of shedding season, which is typically very late winter to spring. This is called “shed hunting,” which looks a lot like taking a hike through the woods and across land. When traveling to an area to look for shed antlers, it is important to follow that state’s guidelines for shed hunting and respect private property lines. Alternatively, antlers can be shopped for online or found in stores. Eclectic stores that sell taxidermy or other oddities may have antlers; some have been found at flea markets or secondhand thrift stores. May you have luck in your search!
Photos by Gaby Rosa - https://www.instagram.com/gabyrosaphoto/
Connect with nature through your flow today. We have created these wicks in partnership with Samantha Mixan (@elementaldancer). We are honored to offer a prop that invites you to engage in intentional movement.
