Here is Mary again, in ink this time. I call this a mystery drawing, because I am engaging in something outside of my understanding and I am performing a seeking by making it and contemplating all that surrounds it. I feel Mary and this scene being in many times and places at once and I am content to let it be- in the garden of Gesthemane, in the garden of the tomb, even in the garden of Eden (even in my own garden), in the pharisee’s house where Jesus’ feet are anointed by Mary, other places are free to come. Also, unto the mystery, I tend to conflate Mary with others, other Marries, Ruth and Eve, and Sheba, but also my own folk and even myself, allowing Mary help me see Christ as she did. I find myself thinking of Mary as being a “type” of the church- who is ultimately described as “the bride of Christ”.
I don’t like to explain too much, as it can tend to close things off- but so does the darkness of having no points of reference.
Mary has her breasts exposed, which might feel troubling to some. I think it is important to consider that breasts are far more than the erotic flesh our culture has reduced them to, but I do not deny the eroticism, I only suggest that we not reduce them to that. Certainly they reveal an intensely deep sense of intimacy and vulnerability, a softness of affection and deep care and self sacrifice(as a livestock man, nothing takes more of a toll on an animal than producing milk). A bare breast is an open heart. Keep in mind the scandal and offense that was stirred by Mary anointing Jesus feet, maybe it is good to let some portion of ourselves to be offended by an intimacy that is greater than our understanding? I beg that you take the time to find your own way here.
Ultimately I feel with all of these images of Mary which I have been engaged in are part of something I need to see and encounter myself and even then proclaim. If I can be so bold, it feels a bit like a prophetic project, which demands some degree of blind obedience on my part. I thank all of you who bear with me and take them time to see my work- such is an immense gift to me. #marymagdalene #drawing #thediaryofatreestandingonitshead #mysticism #spiritualart
A mystery drawing of Mary Magdalene with the feet of Christ from The Diary of a Tree Standing on its Head. #spiritualart #marymagdalene #thewoundsofchrist #drawing #thediaryofatreestandingonitshead
Do not forget that the land is a person with a secret heart, and among the least of these (as in what you have done unto the least of these, you have done unto me) #earth #erdgeist #thediaryofatreestandingonitshead #mysticism #spiritualart
Moving from the underpainting to building oil glazes in the landscape. Still at this stage the highly absorbent ground and egg tempera base- even with a layer of diluted damar varnish prevents much gloss, but ensures good adhesion between layers-the shine will come with the final layers. #oilpaintng #art #indirectpainting #crucifixion
