Umbra Viventis Lucis
Umbra Viventis Lucis [The reflection of the living light] is a series of works constructed from found paper. A form of sun worship. As an ode to, and representation of the sun. The radiant circular form has been construed from worn notes found on the streets, scraps of shopping lists, pieces of books found in abandoned spaces, Islamic astronomical journals, Chinese mathematical textbooks, faded maps and other discarded materials.
The double sided woven discs becomes sculptural forms. Totems speaking of this great ancient symbol and life-giving force. In this arrangement, the scraps of paper become sacred, projecting value onto objects which were initially worthless, forming a tension between the mundane and the holy.
Stemming from FAITH XLVII’s series Aqua Regalia (Royal Water), where she assembled collected objects into shrine-like formations, Umbra Viventis Lucis similarly transforms unwanted materials into something precious and valuable.
With these everyday materials becoming symbols of a greater power, the sun-like discs are imbued with ritualistic potency, becoming sacred objects. Drawing on the symbolism of the sun as a healing power, the works speak of nurturing, growth, and life. In the current socio-political climate with the rise of conservatism, the thematic of the sun and its healing powers attempt to offer the viewer positive affirmation calling on our innate powers for strength.