Catholic Art: New Testament Trinity II by Kathleen Anderson

4 comments on “Catholic Art: New Testament Trinity II by Kathleen Anderson”

1. Rosary Guy on September 3, 2009 at 7:50 pm said:

   What makes this image “New Testament?” It seems to be based on the same Old Testament scene as Rublev’s original. The house of Abraham, the Oak of Mamre, and Mount Moriah are still in the background. The differences I see are: The Father’s robe is less diaphanous more opaque. (this may be just a matter of style or technique, It must be hard to paint a see-through garment). The inset in the front of the altar/table/throne is narrower and arched at the top, perhaps more obviously a “narrow gate.” Rublev’s footed-bowl has become unambiguously a chalice, (filled with wine?) and is flanked by loaves of bread. (leavened bread, apparently), and the Spirit’s mantle is light blue rather than green. Please tell me, what do these changes mean, and why do you call this a New Testament Trinity? A little text with your post would have helped a lot.

   Thanks

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2. Kathleen on September 4, 2009 at 7:31 am said:

   Greetings!
   You are correct about this icon being inspired by St. Andrei Rublev’s Old Testament Trinity. The variations were more intuitional, and the symbols of Holy Eucharist flowed from prayer. One thing about Byzantine Iconography is that the image is a symbolic “window into heaven”, and speaks to the heart more than the intellect. More important than fabric representation and leavening is the prayer response of the soul. Does the image lift the heart and mind to God? What does the image stir in your spirit? Is there a hint of the Father’s voice or an invitation from Jesus? Does the Holy Spirit present new insights? Our Western mind does not always accept the spiritual approach to our faith, but ultimately we are in a relationship with our Loving Creator. As an iconographer, I seek to live a life in holiness through daily prayer and fasting, participation in the sacraments, study and service. Please forgive my imperfections.

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3. Lisa Hendey on September 4, 2009 at 7:38 am said:

   Kathleen, I love sharing your artwork here on the site and hope our readers will visit your gallery at http://www.andersonchristianart.org/ to view more of your beautiful work! Thank you for sharing your gift with us.

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4. Kathleen on September 5, 2009 at 7:18 am said:

   Thank you, Lisa! I really appreciate your ministry, too! All blessings to you! I pray for great success on your upcoming new book! And also for your Diocesan Conference workshop! Your gifts are so needed!!!

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