Reliquary Project: Inspiration

Back at the beginning of October, the write-up for exhibit bid book was due.  Hummm, I didn’t make that date.  Hester kindly reminded us slackers on Oct16 that they were due by the 19th.

So where did my inspiration come from? Let me pass along what I wrote:

Back in late July of this year, physicians told my mother she needed a mitral valve replacement in her heart. By early September, they found she needed a bypass as well. With just one week into her 79^th year, she was under anesthesia.  Surgery went smoothly with the doctor replacing the valve and performing a double bypass. Unfortunately, she experienced multiple complications leading to a 10-day stay in ICU and the inability to swallow. Surrounded with uncertainty and the feeling of powerlessness, the reliquary took form in my head. It has been my constant therapy through the past many weeks.

I wanted to create a sacred space for heart rejuvenation. I utilized the dark rich strength of black walnut to provide a sanctuary structure. The windows impart cleansing air and positive energy to aid healing. Constructed out of a maze of wire looped together, the heart finds power from the mass and unity through the covering. The inner glow of healing emanates from the heart sanctuary for all to encounter.

May your heart be strong!

Gale