"Light Shineth in Darkness" Tapestry

Appliqué, stencilling, photo transfer
137 x 153 cm (4'6" x 5')
Commissioned by Canon John Read and Family for Church of St. John the Evangelist, Port Hope ON

John's father, Bishop Read, would begin each Christmas Eve service by reciting in the dark-ened church the Prologue to St. John's Gospel. The tapestry represents his ministry which enlightened and embraced many people and cultures.

The central shape–a 3-dimensional spiral that divides light from darkness–can be interpretted many ways: a sail swirling around a mast, a church building with 3 entrances, a grand cope and mitre, inner chambers of ear or shell. A tri-angle of vertical ribbons represents the 12 apo-stles and also organ pipes, music being an ongoing gift of the Read family. Above that are tongues of flame.

Many personal images are incorporated, such as Beverley's favourite purple irises, the annual Mohawk seed-blessing festival, and Allan's delightful drawings.

Click on titles to view details:
in situ
detail 1
detail 2
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