Title: The Rock Canyon
Madonna
Medium: Oil, sterling
silver metal leaf with antique 24-carat gold glazed ceramic
mosaic on three hinged birch wood artisan panels.
Size: Center Panel
23.3” x 12”. Side Panels: 18 ¼” x
6”. Total open size apx. 26" x 26"
Year: 2001
Image
Inspiration:
An ex-voto retablo painted in gratitude for the blessings of
healing and renewal.
Center Panel
An ancient series of dry canyons exist in the high desert
lands north of the town of Bend, Oregon. Many centuries
ago, rivers, born from the lakes to the south, wore fissures
and then canyons into the layers of lava rock covering the
land. The ancient native peoples fished and hunted the
rich wetlands and rivers. They left behind petroglyphs
and pictographs to mark important sites. In this canyon
complex the triangular symbol woven within the Madonna’s
cloak is a petroglyph etched into the rock. The serenity
of the canyon is punctuated by the calls of nesting raptors.
The canyon is a powerful place of healing and renewal.
Side Panels
Each side panel reveals a solitary Ponderosa Pine tree.
Surrounded by desert plants, there are a few lone pines at key
junctures of the canyon. They stand singularly against
the skyline, reminding us that despite the arid climate,
life-giving water runs deep under the surface.
Back Panel
A pattern of pine boughs gracefully arc under the light of a
beautiful full moon.
Purchase this art or commission Cristina to paint a santos retablo commemorating your healing.
