Senior Project 2013
This exhibit was placed in the Spori building. The fallowing paragraphs explain the meaning behind the painting.
Recently, Natalie Crossley was blessed to travel throughout
the Middle East, and in particular, Jerusalem. Jerusalem is known for its rich history and Christian art. One
of the most common forms of art found in the Middle East are the beautiful
mosaics. The mosaics, with their variety of colors and patters, can be symbolically
related to each one of us. Each small tile is needed to ensure the integrity of
the whole piece of artwork. In the world we all can be related to a tiny piece
of a mosaic. Each piece is significant and each person is needed to complete a
mosaic of the world. There is
something good that we can learn from every one.
Her goal is to open the viewers eyes of the people in the
Middle East by helping them recognize more then the negativity often portrayed
by the news. She hopes that people
will see that the Middle East is not just a world of war fare, terrorists, and
hate but, is a beautiful country were dear friendships are made, where laughter
is heard, there are good relationships develop. In each of her paintings one can relate the image to themselves
giving the observer the opportunity to see their personal worth in the big
spectrum of life as well as the significance of individuals portrayed. Her goal
for all who view her pictures is that they may be uplifted as they ponder their
personal connection to the painting and those depicted within them.
Over Looking the Old City
(Oil, 24 x 30)
Tradition
(Oil, 20 x 24)
An
admiral trait of the Jews was their tradition and dedication to God. This
painting is of a older man, revealing years of dedication to God. He
posits this dedication through his wearing the traditional Jewish worshipful
clothing. Placed on his head is a black leather box called a phylactery. Scripture
from the Torah is placed inside the phylactery. The phylactery is worn on the
head representing the ideal characteristic of always having God's words on our
minds. This painting represents the dedication every one can have to God and
the covenants one makes.
Valley of Zin
(Oil, 24 x 36)
Biblically, the Valley
of Zin is the place where the Israelite Children wandered for 40
years in the wilderness till they were worthy to enter the Promise Land. Just
like the Israelites wandered in the Valley of Zin, many of us experience
periods of time were we feel like we are wondering through our own wilderness/
trials, striving to be prepared and worthily to enter our “Promise Lands”.
Two Friends
(Oil, 24 x 36)
The
theme of “two” can be traced throughout this painting. Representing the
cherished bond between two individuals no matter the culture or race.
“Oh the comfort, the inexpressible comfort of feeling safe
with a person, having neither to weigh thoughts nor measure words, but pouring
them all right out, just as they are—chaff and grain together—certain that a
faithful hand will take and sift them, keep what is worth keeping, and with the
breath of kindness blow the rest away”—Mulock, Dinah
Backgammon in the Old City
(Oil, 24 x 30)
Backgammon is a very
popular game found in Jerusalem. It was not uncommon for tourists and other
visitors to see several different games being played while walking through the
winding streets of the Old City. This painting can represent the idea or reminder to us all of
the importance to taking time for friends and family.
