ARTWORK NARRATIVE:

The work reinterprets the form of a Roman Catholic monstrance—traditionally a radiant, sun-like object used to display sacred relics—as a secular artifact that venerates nature and life itself. Drawing on humanist rather than religious symbolism, it evokes a contemplative appreciation of the natural world.

The composition incorporates emblematic elements of life, including animals, plants, and food—such as a bee, lamb, fish, sparrow, daisy, fox, cat, and bread—arranged around a central oak cluster with an acorn, a widely recognised symbol of nature and continuity. Natural materials are used throughout: the structure is made from European oak, with veneered components selected for structural stability, and acrylic glazing used for safety.

Nine small paintings are executed on a single circular MDF panel using layered oil paint techniques, combining opaque underpainting with transparent glazing containing traces of amber. Radiating outer elements are hand-sculpted from plaster and paper fibres and finished with gilding. Cracked areas of gold leaf intentionally reveal a red ground beneath, creating textural contrast and referencing traditional gilding practices.