The Book of Mary

After spending 2011 in what was more of a hibernation/house cat state of being after twenty years of perpetual motion, I feel my cup is empty ready to be filled once again. 2012 marks my 60th year of being. My state of being means something different now than it did a mere year ago. It includes being contented, being aware, and being a productive contributor to society, but in a different way.

Last year, health issues forced me into different daily routines focusing on being still rather than in motion. In November I found myself in a crisis requiring a trip to the ER. While struggling for breath, I repeated two mantras that have always brought peace and calm to such situations: "Holy Mother, giver of life" and "Hail Mary, full of grace". While not a practicing Catholic, I do call upon her during times of stress and need. And she is always there for me!

It was this particular experience that germinated a seed of an idea into an installation for an upcoming exhibit. What began as an outline of ten panels measuring 38" x 60" has grown to thirty-four possible panels. I discovered Mariology/Marion studies that span the globe and of course, the Internet. She is everywhere!

The Great Mother also brought my dear sister back into my life. She is a gift I treasure! Louise contributed ideas for the panels I never would have thought of doing. We have been recording these ideas via emails serving very much like a project journal for the installation I'm calling "The Book of Mary". This chit-chatter birthed additional possibilities. It has been a long time since I've felt this excited about my own art.

Another major event in our family's life has given the BoM additional meaning. My oldest son decided the Army was the career he wished to pursue. While I am very proud of his choice, learning how to be an Army Mom (considering his MOS is as a Combat Engineer whose motto is something like "We pave the way") is the challenge. I really need Mary at my side!

The Book of Mary will be comprised of at least 20 panels each measuring 38" wide x 60" length done on stark white crinoline which is a stiff semi-transparent fabric. The panels will be hung from above one behind the other approx 20" apart. There will be a layering-look to the panels displayed in this manner.

Below are two experimental panels using traditional calligraphic letter forms and techniques. The fabric has an exceptional quality for accepting metal nibs and writing fluids such as gouache, ink, watercolors, and pigmented markers. The key is to use just the right amount of water while writing and painting to keep the starch in the fabric from dissolving.

Louise lives in Switzerland which means she is a train ride away from Europe's major museums and churches. She suggested creating the look of stained glass on the panels. She has sent me images of various stained glass from The Louvre, The Cluny, and Chartres Cathedral prompting me to visit the glorious windows of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Notre Dame's campus right in my own backyard.

This is a project that inspires and overwhelms me in one breath. However, I feel compelled to pursue it and look forward to showing the results on this blog.