AiaArt

The motivation for this series was the need for me to respond to the exploitation of religions by people who want to justify oppression, aggression and violence, particularly since September 11, 2001. My inspiration has been the internalized relationship I have had with Unitarian Universalism for the past 35+ yrs. The purpose of this series is to share how I wished to celebrate the inherent beauty within each of these sacred symbols and to encourage us to learn about those of us whom hold different symbols close to our hearts.

I chose specifically these 13 religions, first by using statistical references of religions that have a high membership worldwide. The other religions chosen are based on people whom I know and those religious/spiritual affiliations.

I had a hard time starting the Christian Cross symbol because it was difficult for me to reconcile (and see as peaceful and uplifting) a spiritual symbol chosen from a weapon that was used to humiliate, torture, and ultimately kill. I, therefore, did the first image allowing free reign of my emotions to rid myself of the angst in order to help me create a second, peaceful symbol. It is important to acknowledge that in that struggle I had forgotten a fundamental truth: our perceptions are most often shaped by what we see through the lenses of our own personal experiences (histories). My focus on the Cross is narrow and my vision myopic as, to Christians, there is a much more broad and enduring meaning to the Cross beyond the very short time in which it was used as an instrument of death.

I do not profess to be a scholar of the world’s religions, or of any one religion for that matter. While I researched articles and spoke to community/spiritual leaders and others in an effort to get the important aspects of each religious symbol accurate, it is possible I have not totally succeeded. For that I hope my sincere intentions will override any error I may have inadvertently made in the design.

The above Celebration reproductions are limited-edition 11” x 11” images. They are printed on 13″ x 13″ paper and matted to 14” x 14”. They come with a Certificate of Authenticity, and are signed and numbered by the artist. They are printed with Epson Claria ink on Epson Ultra Premium Matte paper at Luna Rising Art Studio© in Long Beach, CA. This combination of ink and paper will last a lifetime when protected from strong ultraviolet radiation, such as direct sunlight or fluorescent lighting, and not exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity. Framing under glass greatly protects and increases longevity.