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MYTHICAL NATIVITY Genesis,
the Gospels, and Revelation, brought together Frequently the word ‘myth’ is confused with ‘fantasy’. That which is mythic is an allegorical representation of deep spiritual truth and its relationship to psychological experience, where as that which is fantastic is simply entertaining fiction. I seek that which is mythic beyond a basic, literal truth. The Mythical Nativity seeks to capture some of the major themes of Christianity in a delightfully whimsical representation. You see the newborn Jesus, represented as a perfect lamb, the necessary sacrifice to atone for all of the sin of humanity. On a table spread before him is the Last Supper, representing the communion he offers us. The eager family, filled with hope and anticipation, is cradled in a blossoming flower. The blooming plant represents the coming of eternal life and the awakening of a dead world, the red color symbolizing the significance of the blood, shed so that all may have life. The three jellied fairies represent the three archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. I chose to represent the guiding star as the Star of David, demonstrating how Jesus is the fulfillment of ancient Jewish prophecy, expectation and tradition. I depicted the wise men who come to offer gifts as a variety of diverse creatures, one of the water (a male frog), one of the land (a female cat), and on of the air (an androgynous bird), to demonstrate the universal invitation of Christ. I depicted the shepherds as beings of an astrological nature; planets, moons and stars, not only to represent the awe and splendor of God’s great creation, but also as a representation of a reoccurring theme in the Bible; that the last will be first, and the weakest shall be greatest. These humble peasant shepherds are more grand and glorious than even the wealthy, educated wise men. The curious little satyr in the bee-patterned costume is John the Baptist, shouting gleefully that a straight way be made for the coming of the Lord! The dragon represents King Herod, who sought for the death of the baby Jesus, as well as evil powers in the world working against God. See how Herod is relegated to his own chamber, outside of the glory of what God is doing in the world, incapable and ineffective, shaking his fist uselessly in the air… the darkness has already been defeated. The five towers of his indefensible castle seem to resemble an outstretched hand with sharp pointed fingers, a human’s meager grasp for power and glory. Beneath him rests a purse of 30 silver coins… a sober reminder that we frequently sellout our relationship with God for cheap, selfish pleasures and temporary satisfactions. There are twelve glowing pearls floating around the scene, which doubly represent the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve disciples. There are three candles behind the shepherds which represent the Trinity. Most of the work on this painting was done at church, where one of the children came to observe my progress each week. For being such a constant encouragement, I told her that she could make up a creature to go into the stable. She decided upon “Coca, the chocolate cow”. I’ve placed myself in the painting as well, depicted as a small green bird. Why, you ask? The only thing I remember how to say after four years of French is, “I’m a little green bird.” :). |