Mary’s Assumption

To create this mixed-media representation of Mary’s Assumption, American sculptor Charles L. Madden drew on the image in Revelation of “a woman clothed with the sun”.

He combined this image with a couplet from Jesuit poet Gerard Manley Hopkins: “The world is charged with the grandeur of God. It will flame out, like shining from shook foil.”

The multi-faceted work, colourful and shimmering, is made of bronze, aluminium and glass enamel. It stands out as the contribution from the United States in a collection of Marian artworks in the Church of the Annunciation, Nazareth.

Scores of other countries (New Zealand not included) have also presented a variety of artworks, usually reflecting their national character. These works are displayed inside the church and outside on the wall that surrounds it. — Pat McCarthy (Photo & Description)