Local Hamilton resident, Belinda Recio, just published a new Apple iOS app, called Heart of the Ark™.

The app, whch runs on Apple's iPads, iPhones, and iPod Touch devices, consists of an interactive digital deck of “Ark Cards,” a Field Journal, and an E-Booklet.

The text side of each card presents a summary of a particular animal’s natural history and symbolism, as well as insightful suggestions for applying that animal’s symbolism to your life. A digital collage is presented on the illustration side.

Featuring an elegantly designed user interface, Heart of the Ark can be used to explore ourselves and our lives by approaching animals as guides and teachers
; and to explore the potential meaning of animal encounters in the physical world, as well as in dreams, meditation, and creativity
. It can also be used as animal symbolism dictionary
 and as an idea generator or tool for creativity.

Prior to getting involved in app development, Recio, worked as a writer and instructional designer for The Discovery Channel, Nature Company, WGBH, Boston’s Museum of Science, and other organizations.  In 2004, Recio was the recipient of the 2004 United States Humane Society’s Award for “Innovation inthe Study of Animals and Society” for developing the graduate-level education course, “Symbolism and Spirit of the Animal Kingdom.”  This course inspired the app.

To support animal welfare, Recio is donating 5% of proceeds to the Humane Society of the United States.

Recio is the contributing editor of nature content for Organic Spa Magazine, as well as their columnist for “State of the Ark,” a series focused on the human-animal relationship. She is also the owner of True North Gallery, in Hamilton, Massachusetts. True North Gallery specializes in art from and inspired by the far north, as well as art that celebrates our connection to nature and other animals.

To purchase, go to iTunes (the app costs $2.99):

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/heart-of-the-ark/id496663920?ls=1&mt=8

For more information, visit: http://www.heartoftheark.com/app/