To the Smiters

Beeswax, magnolia seed pod on wood, 2012

The title of this piece is derived from the passage in Isaiah, where he predicts that the Suffering Servant will offer Himself up as a sacrifice by willingly being afflicted in the stead of others.  He says, “I gave my back to the smiters” -Isaiah 50:6.  This artwork is reflective of the idea that growth comes from vicarious suffering in that the magnolia seed pod must suffer loss and die in order for a tree to be born.