One of the subjects I frequently revisit is that of the Madonna. To date I have made four of them, two painted in oil and two done in colored pencil. It is one of the few subjects that I consider to be beautiful on their face that my hand will allow me to produce.
This one in particular is my oldest child holding her firstborn. She was young when she had her, but it was clear from the start that she was a mother. Her love for her child was undeniable. That is all this painting, or the other represent. That undeniable love a mother has for her child.
Below you will find some historical context for Madonnas being created.
The tradition of painting Madonnas, iconic representations of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, has been deeply intertwined with religious devotion throughout history. However, in recent times, artists have begun to explore these themes from non-religious perspectives, employing the Madonna figure as a symbol of various secular concepts such as femininity, motherhood, and human connection.
One of the primary reasons for this shift is the evolving nature of art itself. As society becomes increasingly diverse and secular, artists are exploring new ways to reinterpret traditional symbols in order to reflect contemporary values and narratives. By removing the religious context from the Madonna figure, artists can explore universal themes that resonate with a broader audience.
In non-religious interpretations, the Madonna often symbolizes the archetype of motherhood and the bond between parent and child. Artists may focus on capturing the tender, nurturing relationship between a mother and her child, emphasizing the universal experience of love and caregiving. Through this lens, the Madonna becomes a symbol of empathy, compassion, and human connection, transcending religious boundaries.
Moreover, by removing the religious connotations, artists have the freedom to imbue their interpretations of the Madonna with personal and social commentary. For example, some artists may use the Madonna figure to challenge traditional gender roles or explore issues of power dynamics within relationships. Others may use the Madonna as a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity, drawing parallels between the struggles of motherhood and broader societal challenges.
In contemporary art, the non-religious Madonna serves as a blank canvas for artists to explore a wide range of themes and ideas. From feminist reimaginings to explorations of identity and belonging, artists continue to find new ways to breathe life into this timeless symbol, ensuring that the tradition of painting Madonnas remains vibrant and relevant in an ever-changing world.
