St. Brendan and the Island of Burning Rock
In this striking painting, St. Brendan the Navigator leads his band of monks toward an ominous island that looms ahead—a stark contrast to the serenity of the sea. The canvas captures the essence of the description from Gerard McNamara's translation of "The Voyage of St. Brendan the Navigator," evoking a sense of foreboding and resilience.
The island is rendered in rich hues of blackened charcoal and semblances of molten rock, a visual representation of a "slag pile" that stands devoid of life. In the distance the verdant plains provide a contrast. The dynamic splashes of color depict water meeting the fiery land, resembling an erupting volcano as molten lava hurls skyward.
Amidst this hostile landscape, St. Brendan’s rallying cry echoes over the fiery sea, encouraging his fellow monks to draw strength from their faith as they navigate the “border waters of hell.” The painting embodies a vivid clash of danger and spirituality, inviting viewers to reflect on the balance between fear and faith in the face of adversity. Each brushstroke tells a story of courage and the unwavering human spirit, making this piece a profound exploration of bravery in the face of the unknown.
In this striking painting, St. Brendan the Navigator leads his band of monks toward an ominous island that looms ahead—a stark contrast to the serenity of the sea. The canvas captures the essence of the description from Gerard McNamara's translation of "The Voyage of St. Brendan the Navigator," evoking a sense of foreboding and resilience.
The island is rendered in rich hues of blackened charcoal and semblances of molten rock, a visual representation of a "slag pile" that stands devoid of life. In the distance the verdant plains provide a contrast. The dynamic splashes of color depict water meeting the fiery land, resembling an erupting volcano as molten lava hurls skyward.
Amidst this hostile landscape, St. Brendan’s rallying cry echoes over the fiery sea, encouraging his fellow monks to draw strength from their faith as they navigate the “border waters of hell.” The painting embodies a vivid clash of danger and spirituality, inviting viewers to reflect on the balance between fear and faith in the face of adversity. Each brushstroke tells a story of courage and the unwavering human spirit, making this piece a profound exploration of bravery in the face of the unknown.
In this striking painting, St. Brendan the Navigator leads his band of monks toward an ominous island that looms ahead—a stark contrast to the serenity of the sea. The canvas captures the essence of the description from Gerard McNamara's translation of "The Voyage of St. Brendan the Navigator," evoking a sense of foreboding and resilience.
The island is rendered in rich hues of blackened charcoal and semblances of molten rock, a visual representation of a "slag pile" that stands devoid of life. In the distance the verdant plains provide a contrast. The dynamic splashes of color depict water meeting the fiery land, resembling an erupting volcano as molten lava hurls skyward.
Amidst this hostile landscape, St. Brendan’s rallying cry echoes over the fiery sea, encouraging his fellow monks to draw strength from their faith as they navigate the “border waters of hell.” The painting embodies a vivid clash of danger and spirituality, inviting viewers to reflect on the balance between fear and faith in the face of adversity. Each brushstroke tells a story of courage and the unwavering human spirit, making this piece a profound exploration of bravery in the face of the unknown.
This is made with oil paint on gallery-wrapped canvas. It is 39 by 40 inches.