new acquisition

Santuario

by Deborah Rael-Buckley

web # 9131

Sculpture

stoneware, oxides, glazes, and acrylics

42"h x 19"w x 11"d

The church in Chimayo on the high road to Taos from Santa Fe, is a place where miracles occur. In the side chapel of the church, there is a well of santified dirt that never seems to deplete eventhough it is dug up many times each day. This dirt, when rubbed on an injury or ailment, can produce healings. So this piece shows the front of the church doors at it appears today. Above the clouds, the torso is carved with symbols that refer to healings: dog-a symbol of loyalty and fidelity, asks for healing to relationships, a set of weights-asks for healing to justice, a crab-asks for healing to the sea or natural world, etc. On the back side of "Santuario" (sanctuary) are a row of crosses, referring to the pilgrimage that takes place every lenten or passover season.