I am very excited about today's giveaway!!! I actually just came across this wonderful etsy shop as I was doing my Christmas shopping a couple of months ago. Let me introduce you to Art4theSoul! Ann has such beautiful and unique creations. From Ann:
My featured works are called "Retablos" which originated as Mexican devotional paintings consisting mostly of images based on centuries old depictions of Catholic saints and spiritual symbols.I ordered Ann's St. Joan of Arc retablo for my godmother for Christmas and couldn't have been happier when I received it. Plus, my godmother LOVED it! I love that these retablos are so unique as I find that when looking at saint statues and pictures or icons, there is not usually a lot of variety. I also love that these are handmade and made here in the United States. Double bonus! I have my eye on Our Lady of Altagracia, Our Lady of Guadalupe (of course), and The Mother of Christmas. Although, to be honest, every time I go and look at Ann's shop, I find another one that I want!
These small paintings were primarily done on tin most often done by untrained artists. My retablos are done on wood. Retablos appeared after the Spanish conquest of Mexico, as a desire to possess a sacred object which would ensure health, fertility, and an abundance of crops.
During the 1700 and 1800's retablo painting flourished. These Retablos also reflect a lively spirit and a true devotion to God. Retablos were sometimes commissioned by individuals but most were sold by peddlers door to door.
In my Retablo shop I hope to create a renewed excitement for the historical art of retablo making! Although my retablos don't necessarily mimic the traditional look of the Spanish folk art and mexican cultural paintings, they contain in them the roots and symbolism which represent the heart and soul of the craft. I hope you become captivated by these pieces - each of which has his own unique story of love.
Ann has blessed me by partnering with me to give away a lovely St. Francis of Assisi retablo.
And with that, good night!
I hope you slept well.
ReplyDeleteSt. Francis, that was my Confirmation name! St. Patrick is dear to us as Mike and I met on St. Patrick's day and Justin is born 9 months to the day from St. Patrick's day. We have a bit of the Irish in us as well! Although, I must say if I won this, I would want you to keep it, in remembrance of your angel.
ReplyDeleteI miscarried my first of six miscarriages on the feast of St. Francis. I felt she was a girl in my heart and named her after Our Lady; however, I did name one of later miscarried babies Francis. Thankfully, very thankfully, as my profile name indicates, we also have seven beautiful, living children! +JMJ+
ReplyDeleteSt. Margret Clitherow is my new patron saint for this year but there are so many to choose from!
ReplyDeleteMy son was born on the Feast of St. Francis! He would love this.
ReplyDeleteSt. Anthony is special to me because my mother ALWAYS had us pray to St. Anthony when anything went missing. When I was dating my now-husband, he lost something and I told him to pray to St. Anthony. He said, "wow, my MOTHER always says that!" I bought my mother in law a St. Anthony retablo from Ann for her birthday---it was gorgeous.
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