This piece was a very extensive project, created specifically for the EBSQ plus show, "Fallen From Grace". The frame is handmade, and consists of stained and varnished pine which has been embellished with corner pieces and stained/painted wooden stars. The gold sections were created using collaged paper. The idea behind this piece was a very personal one. It was meant to celebrate the deeply beautiful religious icons that depicted Mary breastfeeding Jesus, and also to question why imagery of mothers and children in this intimate bond has seemingly "fallen from grace" within contemporary media. The feeling of utter peace, that the world comes down to only two people in a quiet moment of bliss.. It's a very special place and time for a mother and babe, and a time that should be celebrated within society, instead of kept hidden from public view. As for my own religious leanings? I think that comes under the umbrella of the "fallen from grace" theme as well. I was raised under no particular belief system. I think exploring this imagery was an interesting stretch for me because of this. In my own life now, I tend to follow this quote from the Dalai Lama: "If you have religion, good. If not, OK. Still be a nice person."