Given the visceral and volatile nature of the abortion issue, it was the
artist's intention to address it in a wholly positive way. To paraphrase St.
Theresa, "What good does it do to win the argument and lose the soul?" He felt
the best way to proceed was to highlight those things which are transcendent
about motherhood and the beauty of children. In so doing, all people of good
will can meet on common ground, regardless of their political or personal
beliefs. More importantly, it is hoped that people who have not made up their
minds will be inclined toward prayerful contemplation and come to a positive
conclusion. The following is an explanation of some of the main themes addressed
in the sculpture:
Mary's posture is analogous to that of a pregnant woman placing her hands
over her womb and the child within; the infant's posture subtly suggests the
fetal position of an unborn child. This is to show the inseparable connection
between these dual phases of human life and development.
At the center of the statue is a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit, the 'Lord,
Giver of Life.' The head of the dove, located near the heart of the infant,
represents the presence of an immortal soul in every child. In turn, the head of
the infant rests on the heart of his Mother, Mary, whose gaze envelops them
both. The Holy Spirit, Infant, and Mother are integrated one with another. This
establishes the beautiful, inherent physical and spiritual connection that
exists between all mothers and their children.
The cross halo on Christ's head rests on Mary's heart. Mary holds in her
heart the suffering of the innocents and of all those wounded and affected by
abortion. The Infant's left leg hangs gently over the Mother's hand. This is to
show that only with its mother's protection and love will a baby be able to take
its first step into the world and live the life it has been given.
The moon at Mary's feet recalls images of Our Lady of Guadalupe and its
relevant symbolism indicating the Marian triumph over the Aztec god of death,
whose symbol was the crescent moon. A throne of clouds alludes to classic images
of the Assumption and Coronation.
The tilt of Mary's head is purposefully reminiscent of Michelangelo's pieta,
but Mary's features are of a different nature. Instead of the sorrowful reality
of her son's death, this new statue shows Mary's joyful acceptance of her
Motherhood as she envelops her child in a protective, life-giving embrace. That
gesture will eventually lead to the opening of her arms - first to give Jesus to
the world, and then to receive him back, in his suffering and death. When seen
in the light of why it was commissioned, this Pro-Life statue is truly a pieta
in its own rite. The tie in is a strong one and is designed to be so.
The rosary on Mary's arm reminds us that this powerful prayer can change the
world by leading the way in bringing an end to the suffering and division caused
by the abortion issue.
A Timeless Madonna
This original sculpture, Mary, Mother of the Life Within, delicately portrays
the physical and spiritual interdependence of the most basic of all human
relationships; that of the bond between mother and child. It speaks loudly and
clearly regarding the value of human life, the importance of motherhood, and the
protection and security a family provides. The grace of the statue celebrates
the nurturing aspect of motherhood. It speaks very simply to the heart of anyone
of good will regarding the sacredness and dignity of life.
While establishing a new, unique portrayal of the Madonna and Child, this
statue pays loving homage to great Catholic icons of the past. In keeping with
the request of our Lady, its underlying message is predicated on the praying of
the rosary. Its symbols are instantly recognizable to the devout Catholic, yet
the overall simplicity of its composition - that of a mother protectively
embracing her child- can serve as a bridge between all faiths and political
persuasions.
A Synergy of Business and Art
Birchfield Design Group, Inc. is an international multimillion dollar
corporation that produces and sells baskets. When the Vice President of
Birchfield Design, John Routh, met artist Joe DeVito, who composed and sculpted
this statue, they resolved to put their faith into action. Birchfield decided to
establish a division of their company specifically to finance this work and to
help defend the dignity of human life.
This endeavor represents a synergy between an artist and a business man
working towards fulfilling the Gospel of Life. They are answering the Pope's
call to use their talents for the good and "offer a new sign of hope."
Click here for more about the statue, and
for pictures.
