Sailing to Byzantium – Exhibition at Saint John’s Anglican Cathedral
The Exhibition
Address: 373 Ann St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Exhibition Dates: June 29th to August 13th 2024
Opening Night: Thursday 11th July from 06.30pm to 08.30pm
Please RSVP to 0410 197 946
‘Sailing to Byzantium’ is an exhibition that blends the sacred art of the Early Renaissance and Byzantine periods with themes from William Butler Yeats’ poem. The exhibition title comes from W.B. Yeats’ poem Sailing to Byzantium, which speaks of the quest for eternal beauty and spiritual transcendence. In the poem, Byzantium symbolizes an ideal world of artistic and intellectual perfection, a place where the soul finds peace beyond the physical. This idea connects deeply with the spiritual essence of Early Christian art, where every detail holds profound religious meaning.
I’m often asked why I paint Bible scenes. There are a few reasons, but the most important reason is that my paintings are not just about the Bible. These works are about humanity and what comes with it – the beautiful things in life like love and unexpected kindness, devotion, and sacrifice. But humanity also brings pain and tragedy – betrayal, greed, cruelty, and war. Has anything really changed since the Bible was written?
Nowadays it seems that the world is collapsing back to Biblical times, as if there is a crack in civilisation: on one hand, there is humanism and advanced technologies, which Joshua, who stopped the sun in the Old Testimony, did not dream of. On the other hand, there remains a lot of hate and barbarism which we see around the world way too frequently. Sometimes it feels like as if we’re flipping through the Bible and checking it with our reality.
I think we can all relate to the Biblical stories and lessons, in one way or another. The Bible has lots of answers. My Biblical works are my attempts to find them, to process what is happening in the world, and in my own life. They are my prayers, too. Someone once said that art is the highest form of hope.
The Works on Display
Flight into Egypt
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘Flight into Egypt’ captures the poignant Biblical narrative of the Holy Family’s escape from King Herod’s wrath. According to Christian tradition, after the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, Three Magi from the East arrived in Jerusalem, guided by a star, seeking the newborn King of the Jews. King Herod, feeling threatened by the news of this newborn king, deceitfully asked the Magi to inform him of the child’s whereabouts upon finding him. Warned in a dream, the Magi returned home by another route, avoiding Herod.
An angel then appeared to Joseph, instructing him to take Mary and the infant Jesus and flee to Egypt to escape Herod’s murderous plot. This decision proved crucial, as King Herod subsequently ordered the massacre of all male infants under the age of two in Bethlehem, known as the Massacre of the Innocents. The Flight into Egypt thus symbolizes the Holy Family’s journey to safety, guided and protected by divine intervention.
In the painting, Mary and baby Jesus are tenderly depicted on a donkey, led by Joseph, with three angels lighting their path with candles. Joseph holds a dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit and recalling the dove from Noah’s Ark story, signifying peace and safety. The joyful turquoise, blues, and gold hues evoke a sense of divine protection amidst adversity. The naive style chosen enhances the story’s tenderness and sincerity, reflecting the innocence and vulnerability of the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.
Entry to Jerusalem
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
In ‘Entry to Jerusalem’, I aimed to recreate the iconic Christian scene where Jesus, seated on a donkey, is greeted by his disciples and adoring crowds. People thought He would overthrow the cruel Roman rulers; however, Jesus’s goals were more eternal. He knew He didn’t have much time left, but He spent the last week healing and teaching people to love each other. I wanted to capture the palpable excitement and reverence of the moment as children spread carpets on the path and people wave palm leaves, shouting “hosanna.” The composition emphasizes the contrast between the humble, yet powerful figure of Jesus and the joyful chaos of the welcoming crowd.
I tried to express joy through the victorious reds, the color of divine love, and the drama of the event through dynamic lines, flowing composition, and free brushstrokes. The painting expresses both celebration and premonition, reflecting the profound spiritual significance and emotional resonance of this pivotal event in Christian history.
Kiss of Judas
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘Kiss of Judas’ portrays the dramatic and poignant moment of betrayal when Judas kissed Jesus as a signal to identify him to the Roman soldiers who came to arrest him in the Garden of Gethsemane. This act of betrayal was part of Judas’ agreement with the religious authorities who sought to apprehend Jesus. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Jesus’ trial and eventual crucifixion, fulfilling the scriptural prophecies and leading to the events of Good Friday and Easter Sunday in Christian belief. The subtle imagery of the crucifixion on the background serves as a haunting premonition. On the left, Peter with a rooster symbolizes Jesus’s prophecy that Peter would deny him three times before the rooster crowed—a tragic foreshadowing fulfilled that night.
Through this painting, I aimed to evoke contemplation on themes of loyalty, faith, and the complexities of human nature. It’s my attempt to convey not just the historical event, but also the timeless struggle between betrayal and forgiveness, resonating with the enduring narrative of redemption in Christian tradition.
The Trinity
2023, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
The Trinity (Hospitality of Abraham) is inspired by Andrei Rublev’s famous icon (1410) which is considered one of the greatest achievements of Russian medieval art and is renowned for its spiritual depth, composition, and use of color. It depicts the Holy Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—symbolized by three angels sitting around a table, reminiscent of the biblical story of Abraham’s hospitality and the visitation of angels.
The three angels visit Abraham, one of them communicates God’s intention to destroy the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Abraham, deeply concerned for his nephew Lot and the inhabitants of these cities, engages in a bargaining conversation with the angel. He begins by asking if the city would be spared if fifty righteous people were found there. The angel agrees, and Abraham progressively lowers the number, asking about forty-five, forty, and so on, until he negotiates down to ten righteous individuals. The angel assures Abraham that for the sake of ten righteous people, Sodom would be spared from destruction.
In Sodom, Lot, Abraham’s nephew, welcomed the angels into his home, where they were treated hospitably. However, the men of Sodom demanded to have relations with the angels, displaying their depravity further. As a result of their wickedness, Sodom and Gomorrah were ultimately destroyed by fire and brimstone as divine judgment. Lot and his family were instructed to flee without looking back. His wife disobeyed and turned into a pillar of salt.
Considering the challenges and moral dilemmas prevalent in today’s world, I find this ancient narrative fascinating and remarkably contemporary. It prompts the question: How many righteous people can justify the existence of a Sodom?
Resurrection
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘Resurrection’ depicts the profound moment of Jesus rising from the tomb, a symbol of victory over death. Jesus holds a flag adorned with a red cross, embodying triumph and redemption. Three Roman soldiers slumber nearby, unaware of the miraculous event unfolding before them. The painting’s almost monochrome palette and geometrically harmonious composition, emphasizing diagonals, aim to evoke the solemnity and spiritual significance of the Resurrection. Through deliberate rough brushstrokes reminiscent of an old fresco, I aimed to imbue the scene with a timeless, sacred aura. This artwork invites viewers to contemplate themes of faith, renewal, and the enduring power of divine grace in overcoming adversity and darkness.
Descent from the Cross
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
In my painting ‘Descent from the Cross’, I aimed to convey the solemnity and emotional depth of this pivotal moment in Christian tradition. The composition is structured with strong geometric lines, emphasizing the gravity and stillness of the scene. A limited color palette enhances the focus on the composition itself, allowing the viewer to immerse in the narrative without distraction. The faded facial features of the figures, while subtle, retain an expressive quality that speaks volumes about the grief and reverence surrounding the descent of Jesus from the cross. The roughness of the paint application subtly echoes the texture of a fresco, adding a timeless quality to the depiction.
Jesus Washes Peter's Feet
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
This painting captures a profound moment of humility and service from the biblical narrative. At the heart of the composition, Jesus is depicted holding a towel around him, symbolizing his act of washing Peter’s feet. Peter and the disciples behind him display expressions of surprise and contemplation, reflecting their initial confusion and eventual understanding of Jesus’ lesson in humility and servant leadership. This scene symbolizes the essence of Christian teachings on humility, love, and service. It underscores Jesus’ message that true greatness lies in serving others selflessly, regardless of one’s status or position.
Three Marys and the Angel
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘Three Marys and the Angel at the Tomb’ depicts a poignant moment of discovery and revelation from the biblical narrative. The three Marys—Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome—arrive at Jesus’s tomb with oils, intending to anoint his body. They encounter an angel dressed in luminous white garments, radiating a sense of divine presence. The angel delivers the stunning news that Jesus has risen from the dead, instructing them to go and tell the disciples of this miraculous event.
The painting’s nearly monochromatic palette enhances the solemnity and ethereal atmosphere of the scene, focusing attention on the angel’s transcendent appearance and the emotional reactions of the Marys. Through this artwork, I aim to convey the awe-inspiring moment of resurrection and the transformative power of faith, hope, and divine intervention in the face of grief and uncertainty.
Last Supper
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘The Last Supper’ delves into the iconic biblical scene with a focus on geometric precision and vibrant colors. The composition is structured around strong geometric design, a hallmark of early Christian paintings. Joyful turquoise, orange, and yellow hues imbue the scene with warmth and spiritual energy—characteristic of Byzantine icons, which often depicted even somber themes joyfully. The facial expressions of the disciples are distinct and emotive, reflecting their responses to Jesus’ revelations, capturing a range of emotions from awe and reverence to confusion and contemplation. I find great enjoyment in depicting these nuanced human emotions, as exploring human nature is a special focus of my artistic practice, in general.
Symbolism is integral to the painting: the fish symbolizes early Christianity, while three cups represent the Trinity, with the largest cup symbolizing the Holy Chalice. This painting of ‘The Last Supper’ marks my second rendition; the first, completed around eight years ago, differs significantly in style and composition.
Baptism of Christ
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
The composition of ‘Baptism of Christ’ is centered on strong vertical geometry, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the moment. Jesus stands in the River Jordan, with John the Baptist on the left and four angels on the right, tenderly holding his garment. Symbolism abounds: the fish represents early Christianity, symbolizing faith and community; the dove embodies the Holy Spirit descending from heaven; and the palm trees signify salvation and life, referencing Palm Sunday and Jesus’ Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem. The joyful colors enhance the scene’s spiritual vibrancy and hope.
Many early Christians, persecuted and forced to worship in secrecy, used the fish symbol as a covert means of identification. It derived from Jesus’s words to Peter and Andrew, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men,” symbolizing their mission to spread the teachings of Christ.
Annunciation
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘Annunciation’ portrays the sacred moment when Saint Gabriel announces to Mary that she will conceive and bear Jesus. The composition focuses on Saint Gabriel presenting a dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, to Mary who sits in contemplation. Lilies, symbolizing purity and divine love, adorn the scene alongside three trees representing the Holy Trinity. Symbolism deepens with the window’s cross and the column near Mary’s chair, foreshadowing Jesus’ future crucifixion.
This theme holds a special place in my heart, symbolizing good news, hope, and new beginnings. I’ve explored it in five different versions, each unique in color scheme and design, reflecting my evolving interpretation and artistic exploration of this profound moment in Christian tradition.
Three Archangels
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
In my painting ‘Three Archangels: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael,’ I delve into the celestial realm, capturing the essence of these revered figures. Angels have long been a cherished theme in my artistry, symbolizing spiritual guardianship and divine intervention.
Recently, I discovered that my birthday, September 29th, coincides with the feast day of the Archangels, traditionally celebrated as St. Michael’s feast day. This serendipitous discovery adds a personal and meaningful layer to my artistic exploration, reinforcing a sense of connection and inspiration.
St Michael
2022, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
In my painting of St. Michael, he is depicted astride a red-winged horse, adorned with traditional attributes such as scales and a trumpet. The vibrant colors resonate with the intensity found in medieval Russian icons, evoking a sense of spiritual power and authority. The red horse holds special significance for me beyond its traditional symbolism—it represents the Zeitgeist, capturing the spirit, tension, and alarmism of our modern era.
This motif also pays homage to Petrov-Vodkin’s ‘Bathing of the Red Horse’ (1912), one of my favourite paintings from childhood, and probably, the most famous Russian painting of the early 20th century.
Inspired by old icons, Petrov-Vodkin’s artwork became a symbol of the impending disasters looming over the country, reflecting the turbulent times between revolutions and prompting ongoing scholarly debate about its interpretation.
The Red Horse frequently appears in my paintings, not only in those inspired by Christianity.
Wedding in Cana
2023, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘Wedding in Cana’ depicts the joyous occasion of Jesus’ first miracle, where he turned water into wine at a wedding feast in Cana, as recounted in the Gospel of John. The scene is imbued with vibrant colors and a musical composition, featuring repetitive motifs and symmetrical design that evoke a sense of harmony and celebration. Symbolism enriches the narrative: the fish symbolizes early Christianity, while pomegranates represent fertility and abundance, reflecting the blessings bestowed upon the gathering. The mood of the painting resonates with joy and festivity, capturing the moment when water is transformed into the finest wine at Jesus’ command.
St George (on white horse)
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
In my painting of St. George, I depict the timeless tale of his heroic victory over the dragon, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. St. George’s legend tells of his courageous rescue of a princess and the vanquishing of a fearsome dragon, embodying themes of valor and spiritual fortitude. This narrative resonates deeply with me, reflecting a fascination with themes of bravery and righteousness in today’s world. I have explored this theme through several versions of the story, viewing it as both a reflection of contemporary challenges and a personal prayer for strength and virtue.
The painting features a joyful color palette, with vibrant reds and golds symbolizing courage and victory. Its naive style, akin to a child’s approach to painting, reflects sincerity and directness—an approach Picasso famously admired. “It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child.” (Pablo Picasso)
St George and the Dragon (in turquoise)
2024, Oil on Canvas, 60cm x 60cm
In this alternate version of St. George, I explore the timeless theme of his heroic triumph over the dragon using a different color palette dominated by joyful turquoise and intricate decorative designs. This theme continually inspires me, offering endless opportunities for experimentation while delivering a powerful message of courage and righteousness.
I also find it fascinating, that in medieval icons, the dragon was sometimes depicted on a chain held by the saved princess, symbolizing the interconnected nature of evil with humanity. This symbolism underscores the idea that defeating evil requires overcoming our internal struggles, confronting our inner “dragons”.
St George and St Michael
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
In my painting ‘St Michael and St George'” I depict two iconic figures embodying valor and divine protection. St Michael, astride a red horse, and St George, mounted on a white horse, create a dynamic composition with their capes flowing dramatically in diagonal lines. The deliberate rough brushstrokes evoke the antiquity of icons or frescoes, adding a sense of sacredness and historical depth.
The color palette predominantly features traditional red and gold tones, symbolizing victory, courage, and spiritual power. These colors not only enhance the visual impact but also convey the triumph of good over evil—the central theme of both saints’ legendary feats.
Madonna and Child with a Dove
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
In this exhibition, I showcase several paintings of Madonna and Child, a theme that resonates deeply in my artistic journey. It holds a special place as I continuously explore its nuances and symbolism. Each depiction delves into diverse moods and expressions, with particular emphasis on capturing the varied emotions reflected on Madonna’s face. These portrayals reveal the depth and complexity of maternal love and spiritual devotion, themes that profoundly inspire me as both a mother and an artist.
Among the artworks displayed is another version of this painting, featuring Baby Jesus holding an olive branch, offering a subtle variation in symbolism. Observing closely, viewers can note the differences in Mary’s eye expressions between the two paintings, each subtly altering the narrative and emotional resonance of the scene. These details invite contemplation on the profound bond between mother and child and the spiritual significance embedded in artistic interpretation. Through these variations, I aim to enrich the viewer’s experience by exploring different facets of this timeless theme.
Madonna and Child with an Olive Branch
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
In ‘Madonna and Child with an Olive Branch’ I delve into the profound symbolism of the olive branch, drawing from its Biblical significance rooted in the story of Noah’s Ark. According to Genesis, after the great flood subsided, Noah sent a dove from the ark to find dry land. The dove returned with an olive branch, indicating that the waters had receded, and life could begin anew—a symbol of peace and hope.
Throughout this exhibition, including in this painting, I deliberately employ brushstrokes reminiscent of frescoes. This technique not only enriches the visual texture but also imbues the artworks with a timeless quality, echoing the sacred art of antiquity.
Viewers can compare the eye and facial expressions of the Madonna in this painting with another piece, ‘Madonna and Child with a Dove’, also featured in the exhibition. This comparison highlights the nuanced emotional depth portrayed in each artwork, inviting reflection on the timeless themes of maternal love, faith, and divine grace depicted in the Madonna and Child motif.
Three Kings (Wise Men)
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
‘Three Kings’ portrays the timeless narrative of the Wise Men or Magi from the Christmas story. According to Christian tradition, these three figures, believed to be scholars or astrologers, travelled from the East following a miraculous star to Bethlehem. The Magi brought gifts of gold, symbolizing kingship; frankincense, representing divinity; and myrrh, signifying mortality and sacrifice. This event symbolizes the recognition of Jesus’ divinity and his role as the Messiah.
In capturing this scene, I aimed to convey the joy and mystery of the moment, along with the universal quest for divine truth.
Madonna and Blessing Child
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
The painting draws inspiration from Byzantine icons, which deeply influence my artistic vision. Early Christian artists, who sought transcendence beyond realism, inspire me greatly. Their work may seem naive or simplistic compared to High Renaissance art, but this perception is misleading. Early Christian artists aimed to convey divine ideas rather than replicate material reality, thereby accessing the eternal through their creations. They were true pioneers in design as we understand it today.
This approach resonates with modernist ideals of the 20th century, where artists similarly prioritized essence over mere physical form. In my artwork, I aim to pay homage to this rich tradition while infusing it with my personal perspective and emotions as both a mother and an artist. This synthesis allows me to explore themes of spirituality and symbolism in a contemporary context, bridging ancient traditions with modern sensibilities.
Madonna and Child
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
In Christian tradition, colours not only enrich the visual appeal of art but also carry deep theological significance, fostering spiritual contemplation. The paintings in this exhibition, including “Madonna and Child,” adhere to the tradition of colour symbolism:
Red signifies the blood of Christ shed for humanity’s redemption, emphasizing his sacrificial role as Savior.
Green symbolizes hope, growth, and eternal life, highlighting Christ’s divine nature and the promise of salvation.
Purple, associated with royalty and penitence, reflects solemnity and preparation.
Gold represents divine light, glory, and the majesty of God, underscoring the sacredness of the scene and emphasizing the heavenly bond between mother and son depicted in this painting.
Christ Pantocrator
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
‘Christ Pantocrator’ (translated as Almighty or all-powerful) explores a profound theme in Christian iconography. Christ holds a closed book symbolizing the Gospels, representing divine wisdom and teachings. The gesture of his right hand, extending in a gesture of blessing, carries deep significance rooted in ancient Greco-Roman communication traditions adopted by Byzantine culture. The use of two fingers signifies the dual nature of Christ as both divine and human, while the three fingers symbolize the Holy Trinity, a cornerstone of Christian faith.
The painting’s abstract design, inspired by Byzantine icons, serves to symbolize the divinity and eternal nature of Christ, transcending mere physical representation.
Contrasting with another painting in this exhibition, “The Head of Christ,” which portrays Jesus with a more realistic approach emphasizing his humanity, ‘Christ Pantocrator’ focuses on depicting the spiritual essence and theological depth of Christ’s divinity. Together, these artworks invite viewers to contemplate the multifaceted nature of Jesus, both as a historical figure and as a central figure in Christian theology.
Head of Christ
2023, Oil on Canvas, 75cm x 60cm
In ‘Head of Christ’, I portray Jesus in a style closer to realism, emphasizing his humanity through expressive features. The painting focuses on capturing his human essence, with only the halo hinting at his divine nature. This contrasts sharply with ‘Christ Pantocrator’, another painting in this exhibition, which symbolizes Christ’s omnipotence and divinity through abstract design and symbolic gestures.
‘Head of Christ’ invites viewers to connect with Jesus on a personal and human level, reflecting on his compassion, wisdom, and the profound impact of his teachings on humanity.
Blue Angel
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 60cm
‘Blue Angel’ draws its inspiration from the Annunciation by St. Gabriel, conveying the message of good news. The Angel’s pose evokes the moment of divine revelation, adorned with decorative elements that enhance its symbolic depth. The colour palette, dominated by various shades of blue, creates a serene and ethereal atmosphere, almost monochromatic in its harmonious blend. This choice of colour symbolizes peace, spirituality, and the heavenly realm, aligning with the angelic nature of the subject.
Madonna and Child in White
2024, Oil on Canvas, 60cm x 60cm
In ‘Madonna and Child in White’, I explore the profound symbolism rooted in Christian tradition. Baby Jesus, clothed in white, symbolizes purity, innocence, and the divine nature of Christ. His gentle gesture towards Mary emphasizes the sacred bond between mother and child. Mary, adorned in purple and pink, embodies royalty, penitence, and maternal love. The background, with its shades of gold, signifies divine light, glory, and the heavenly realm.
Personally, pink holds an additional layer of meaning for me. In the Middle Ages, it symbolized bravery and was worn by knights. It’s fascinating how colours, like language, evolve and carry historical significance. I frequently incorporate pink into my paintings, using it to evoke various emotions and layers of symbolism.
The design of the painting aspires for abstraction, seeking to transcend mere physical representation and aiming to convey deeper spiritual truths and the eternal significance of the Madonna and Child motif.
Madonna and Child in Red
2024, Oil on Canvas, 60cm x 60cm
The monochrome palette of shades of red in this ‘Madonna and Child’ symbolizes passion, love, and sacrifice in Christian tradition. Mary and Child Jesus gaze directly at the viewer, inviting contemplation of their divine presence. Jesus, holding a scripture and gesturing a blessing, embodies wisdom and divine authority. Mary’s protective posture around Jesus conveys maternal love and strength. The powerful yet serene expressions on their faces evoke a sense of peace and spiritual depth.
In this painting, I endeavoured to capture the timeless essence of maternal love while also striving to achieve expressive harmony through a limited colour palette.
St George (in red)
2024, Oil on Canvas, 60cm x 60cm
‘St George and the Dragon in Red’, rendered in an almost monochrome symbolic red, adopts a naive style that lends itself perfectly to depicting the ancient legend. In my view, naive art possesses a quality of child-like honesty and sincerity. St George’s heroic stance against the dragon symbolizes the triumph of good over evil, a theme that resonates with our contemporary world. What has really changed since then? Certainly not human nature.
Each painting of St George is not only an artistic exploration but also a personal prayer for the victory of righteousness in the face of adversity. The red colour palette intensifies the emotional and symbolic depth, emphasizing the passion and sacrifice inherent in this powerful Christian allegory.
St George on Red Horse
2024, Oil on Canvas, 120cm x 90cm
‘St George on the Red Horse’ serves as a bridge between the collection of works showcased in this exhibition and my ongoing series, ‘Inner Circus,’ which I’ve been developing over the past few years. ‘Inner Circus’ delves deep into human nature through a philosophical and allegorical lens, exploring the masks we wear and the internal struggles we face as individuals.
In this painting, the portrayal of St George atop the Red horse not only embodies the heroic legend but also symbolizes the contemporary Zeitgeist (spirit of the time) with its turbulence and unpredictability. The composition and style reflect a fusion of traditional themes with a modern interpretation, emphasizing the timeless relevance of moral courage and the eternal struggle between good and evil.
The Nativity
2024, Oil on Canvas, 90cm x 90cm
‘The Nativity’ explores the essence of the Christmas story with its joyful colors and naive style. Mary, enveloped in a mandorla, radiates serenity; the attentive horse and cow add a peaceful presence, while on the left, the angels adore the newborn with reverence. On the right, three Kings follow the Bethlehem star, joined by shepherds, all drawn with a heartfelt simplicity that enhances the scene’s profound significance.
I hope that the painting evokes a sense of wonder and reverence, making the Nativity story come alive with warmth and grace.
