ASTARTE was a Canaanite (Palestinian) goddess who was worshipped throughout the Middle East thousands of years before the dawning of patriarchal monotheism. The goddess of both love/fertility and war, Astarte was also known as Astoreth, Asherah, Ishtar, Inanna, Isis, and Venus, among others. Evidence of Her widespread worship dates back as far as the Upper Paleolithic Era, around 25,000 B.C.: Stone idols were discovered as well as remnants of temples built to honor Her. One of the most famous of these temples was erected by King Solomon just outside of Jerusalem, circa 1000 B.C.



By whatever name, Astarte represents THE GREAT MOTHER, uniting mankind in holy celebration of life and creation. The balance of Her warrior aspect is a reminder to use our innate, individual strength not against one another, but rather toward evolution as a compassionate species.



In this same spirit, THE ASTARTE PROJECT seeks to reunite people in the Middle East and also around the world in peace by gathering artists to do their good work toward this cause.



Proceeds from all TAP events are donated to organizations that support peace through non-violence.



"Peace is a collaboration between people and I see that women are going to be leading the way."

--DeAnna L'Am

(from "Awakened Woman" eMagazine, June 2000)