The title to this piece is a question that still finds few answers when considering the global atrocities enacted by representatives of religions. Here, the artist draws focus to Christianity. Many await justice for the crimes that occurred behind closed doors under the protective hierarchies of the churches, their residential homes and schools, and other assimilative programs. In this painting the priests stand high above their followers: mighty and powerful in their robes that hold the promise of purity, guidance and hope. Whittle wants to highlight their true representation, as she says of "lies, disgrace, coverups, legions of broken lives and thousands of bodies of those who never returned from residential settings.
Artist +-
Carmel Whittle
Carmel Whittle is a Mi'kmaw/Irish cultural community visual artist, independent film maker, musician/songwriter and activist. She identifies as Mi'kmaw-Irish, 2-spirit, a queer Newfoundland and Labradorian woman, who has been transformed by: the knowledge of the genocide lands of the Beothuck, First Nation Indigenous Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador, and by the modern movements of resistance and creation. What she saw in the catalyzing power of youth - such as the Nishiyuu Walkers from Northern Quebec to Ottawa, and the ongoing Idle no More resistance movement - helped her not just to move beyond, but to strive to unite suffering and devastation with strength and hope.
The transformative power of art is the change. Whittle wants the viewer to explore, question, reflect and seek. Her intention is to express hardships behind bountiful colours rich in a style that leave the viewer in a state of inquiry. These works hold suffering and strength; and through her personal journey she wishes to provoke the creation of new realities, new awarenesses, and new forms of resistance. Metis leader Louis Riel said "My people will sleep for 100 years but when they awake it will be the artists who give them back their spirit.” (Louis Riel, July 4, 1885)
Donation +-
Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the social movement. Donation will be given to the No Borders Art Festival.
Artwork Details +-
Printed, using the giclée method, on Hahnemühle German Etching fine art paper. A 310 gsm traditional mould-made copperplate printing paper, complete with an inkjet coating. The white art paper made from 100% alpha cellulose is characterised by its extraordinary velvety tactile feel and its fine, clearly defined felt structure with traits of a traditional artist board. It is acid- and lignin-free and meets the most exacting requirements in terms of age resistance.
Frame: Artwork is printed without a frame.
Shipping: Delivery duration is 4-7 business days within the UK, 7-10 business days across Continental Europe and 10-20 days for the rest of the world. Delivery to some countries will be subjected to additional import VAT and duties to be paid to the courier directly.