Sanctum of the Little Miracle
The Latin phrase sanctum refers to a sacred place within a sacred building, such as a temple. The contemporary use of sanctum is typically applied to any private or much-valued place. Alternatively, a sanctum could be a space that represents a retreat from the day-to-day demands of life. A place to pause and reflect. I still like to think of a sanctum as a room to which a spiritual meaning is applied for example, set aside for mediation, prayer and reflection. I consider the daily practice of meditation essential to my physical and psychological well being and (although I don’t currently have a sanctum per-se) perceive my home as a sanctuary in which I can achieve this practice.
Aside from the glue, varnish and paint, all materials used are found or discarded objects. I enjoy combining materials with different textures, in this case wood and felt. The walls are coated in black and flesh-pink felt while the floor-boards are recycled and varnished ice-cream sticks. The figures are melted, distorted and re-assembled plastic toy soldiers, coated in papier mache and paint. Why, Sanctum of the Little Miracle? There’s nothing wrong with occasionally praying for miracles, even though in my experience I seem to achieve them by less miraculous means: through hard work and persistence.
.
(This post relates to Sanctum of the Little Miracle, Arrigo Dorissa art dolls #5,6,7 & 8, February 2008)
.
.
.
.
Hi Arrigo, is that an eye? The object placed between the attic and the sanctum? So much is going on in this little environment. Where is the fourth figure? I have so many questions, but I’m facinated by the narrative in this piece. Hilda.
Thank you for your comment Hilda. There is a story behind this piece together. The three dark, figurative sculptures act out a scene that represent the meditation of the fourth, red figure sitting before his crucifix. The back wall of the sanctum has a doorway behind which, lurks one of the shadowed figures. In the attic, two more shadowed figures struggle with each other and exchange blows. The red figure points outward, beyond the sanctum’s walls. Perhaps he is reflecting on life outside the private retreat. My intention is that the shadowed figures represent thoughts intruding on the red figure’s mind during the course of his meditation. Sometimes, clearing the mind and focusing can be a challenge. I sincerely hope that people will make their own understanding or meaning about what is going on in the sanctum. Thank you doe your question and, yes, that is an eye - a symbol which in this case, represents clarity.