What Does a Dragonfly Mean Spiritually? An Australian Artist Explains

Spiritually, a dragonfly symbolises transformation, change and resilience. Across many cultures it is also seen as a messenger of hope, and a sign that a loved one who has passed is near. If a dragonfly keeps appearing for you, it is widely read as a gentle nudge to trust your path through a season of change.

I am Shazzy, a mixed media artist on the Gold Coast, and dragonflies turn up in my life and my paintings more than I can explain by chance. So let me walk you through what they mean, what the colours signify, and why so many women tell me a dragonfly arrived right when they needed it.

In this article

• What does a dragonfly symbolise spiritually?
• Is a dragonfly a sign from a loved one who has passed?
• What do different dragonfly colours mean?
• What does it mean when a dragonfly visits or lands on you?
• Dragonflies, angels and the art you live with
• FAQ

What does a dragonfly symbolise spiritually?

The dragonfly is one of nature's great symbols of transformation. It begins life underwater as a nymph, hidden away for months or even years, before rising to the surface, shedding its old self and taking flight as a creature of light and air.

That life cycle is exactly why people reach for the dragonfly during big change. It speaks to growth, adaptability and the kind of strength that comes from softness. It is also a reminder of lightness and joy: the way a dragonfly hovers, then darts, then plays in the sun, like it has decided not to carry the weight of the world. When one keeps crossing your path, it is often read as a sign that change is coming, and that you have what it takes to move through it with grace.

Is a dragonfly a sign from a loved one who has passed?

For many people, yes. Across cultures the dragonfly is seen as a messenger between worlds, and its appearance during grief is often felt as a sign that a loved one's spirit is close. Native American tradition treats it as a soul carrier and a bringer of renewal, and in Japan the dragonfly was a symbol of strength and courage worn by samurai (you can read more on its cultural history here).

There is a piece of folklore I adore: legend says dragonflies were given an extra set of wings so that angels could ride on their backs. So when a dragonfly visits, it is an exquisite little reminder that an angel may be visiting too. I painted that feeling into Fly with Strength after dragonflies appeared all around our coastal home. I knew they were a sign I had to put on canvas.

What do different dragonfly colours mean?

Colour shifts the message. Here is a quick guide to the most common dragonfly colours and what they are traditionally said to mean.

Dragonfly colour	Common spiritual meaning
Blue	Peace, calm, clarity and honest communication
Red	Passion, strength, protection and big emotion
Green	Healing, renewal, growth and abundance
Black	Deep transformation and facing the unknown
Yellow or gold	Joy, optimism and a fresh, youthful start
Orange	Creativity, warmth and nurturing yourself

What does it mean when a dragonfly visits or lands on you?

When a dragonfly lingers near you, or is bold enough to land on you, it is widely read as a moment of good fortune and a quiet message: stay present, and trust the change that is unfolding. Some traditions see it as confirmation you are on the right path. Others see it as a loved one saying hello.

You do not have to choose a single meaning. The beauty of a dragonfly sighting is that it tends to arrive with its own feeling attached. Most women I speak to already know, deep down, who or what it was about. The sign simply gives them permission to believe it.

Dragonflies, angels and the art you live with

This is where it gets personal for me. I lost my mum when I was very young, and ever since I have felt her presence as my guardian angel, always nearby. I truly believe she has led me to other angels along the way, in the form of people, moments and signs exactly when I needed them. Dragonflies are one of those signs.

That feeling became my Angel Collection: paintings that celebrate love, beauty and those golden moments where you just know you are being watched over. Each Who is the Angel canvas is hand embellished with 24 karat gold leaf, so no two are the same. It is a tribute to the ones we have lost but never really lose.

Whether it is a dragonfly, a feather or a butterfly, the women who collect my work usually have a story behind the piece they choose. The art becomes the keepsake. A little reminder on the wall that change is not an ending, it is a beginning.

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean when you see a dragonfly?

Seeing a dragonfly is generally read as a sign of transformation and good fortune, and an encouragement to stay present through change. Many people also experience it as a comforting sign from a loved one who has passed.

Are dragonflies a good omen?

Yes. Across most cultures the dragonfly is a positive symbol, linked to luck, renewal, hope and new beginnings. If a dragonfly lands on you, it is traditionally said to mean good news is on its way.

What does a dragonfly symbolise after a death?

After a loss, a dragonfly is often felt as a visit. Its life cycle, from hidden nymph to free flight, mirrors the idea that a loved one's form has changed but their presence still moves through your days. It is one of the most comforting signs in grief.

Do dragonflies represent angels?

In folklore, dragonflies were said to be given extra wings so angels could ride on their backs, which is why a dragonfly sighting is sometimes seen as an angel visiting. It is the very idea behind my dragonfly and Angel paintings.

What does it mean if a dragonfly keeps appearing to me?

Repeated dragonfly sightings are usually read as a stronger nudge to embrace a change you are already sensing, to release old worries, and to trust your path. Pay attention to what you were thinking about the moment it appeared.

Want more stories behind the paintings? Read more from the studio on the Shazzy Campbell Art blog, or start a little collection of your own with The Little Joy Print Club.