PANEL OF SAINT THERESE
SACRED ART
An artistic panel created for a Christian temple, filled with important religious symbolism and meaningful details.
The Religious Panel of Saint Therese of Lisieux is a distinctive artistic creation for the chapel bearing her name. Its design carries deep spiritual and symbolic significance, illustrating the connection between the divine and the earthly, inspired by Christian symbolism and moments in the life of Thérèse of Lisieux. On this panel, every detail carries a special meaning, fostering an atmosphere of reflection and devotion within the sacred space.
The art style of this work draws inspiration from the artistic language of stained glass windows in historic churches. It revives a timeless aesthetic while blending it with a fresh, modern interpretation, standing as a striking example of contemporary sacred art.
Concept
The panel portrays paradise and the world below, connected by an arc of halo that points heavenward, symbolizing the sacred bond between the two realms. Each environment features symbolic and iconic shapes and colours meaningful to the saint's image at the center.
Cross and Saint
Two pre-existing elements were seamlessly incorporated into the panel to become integral parts of the composition. The cross at the top and the saint's image just below it.
Celestial Realm
Located at the upper section of the panel, where the cross and the saint’s image are found, a glorious blue sky represents paradise.
Color: shades of blue
Earthly Realm
Outside of paradise domain, at the lower section, is the earthly environment.
Colors: gray and green
Halo Arc
Representing the alliance between the divine and the human, the halo-like arc connects the celestial and the earthly realms.
Color: gold-yellow
Radiant Rays
The representation of light emanating from the saint’s figure and extending toward the cross above the image refers to the central point of Christian belief, the sacrifice as an act of love.
Colors: gold-yellow and orange
Solar Circle
A luminous circle around the cross and the saint’s image symbolizes holiness and divine grace.
Color: gold-yellow
Gray Sky
The muted tones of the sky represent the lack of clarity and color that often characterizes mundane existence.
Color: shades of gray
Fertile Soil
At the base, vibrant greenery symbolizes a rich, nurturing ground where faith and hope can flourish, aided by blessings from above.
Colors: shades of green
Rays of Blessings
Rays streaming from the saint’s image, originating in paradise and extending into the earthly realm, represent the blessings and graces bestowed upon the world.
Color: orange
Rain of Roses
Falling roses evoke Thérèse of Lisieux’s promise: "After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses."
Color: light pink
Framing Border
A golden border outlines the panel, emphasizing the elements contained within, working as a visual frame.
Color: gold-yellow
Light Points
Unidirectional lamps were strategically positioned to highlight the saint's image and the cross, enhancing their visibility without disrupting the composition of the panel.
The artistic panel of Saint Therese of Lisieux is not merely designed as a work of sacred art but also as a visual prayer.
Project development: architect Roberto Gasparini Jr.
Images: Roberto Gasparini Jr.