The artist himself writes: Inspired by nature and the cosmic order. Arachne was a weaver who defied the gods with her skill. As punishment, the goddess Athena transformed her into a spider.
Punishment or blessing?
In European cultures, the spider is viewed as a pest, symbolizing darkness and dread. This perception stems partly from the Bible (Job 27:18, Job 8:14, Isaiah 59:5, etc.), where the spider is frequently used as a metaphor for wicked people.
Yet its history is older and more significant.
In India, the spider—with its web and the number eight—represents good fortune, while its body symbolizes infinity. In Greek and Egyptian mythology, it represents fate. In China, the spider is a harbinger of good luck.
So?
The spider is wise and artistic; its work is painstaking. It rebels and reflects.