The Nativity

The Nativity triptych inspired two pieces in this exhibition - the repeating pattern which shows the entire story, and the golden painting which hones in on the annunciation. I created a pattern as my way of showing the triptych in one connected illustration. I enjoy making pattern designs as part of my work, but showing this complex narrative as a pattern was a very challenging task. Some visual similarities can be seen between the pattern and the tapestry - I did consult the tapestry extensively while in the sketching phase, but didn’t stick rigidly to the same style nor keep all of the same motifs.

Often when designing a pattern, you are faced with the issue of empty space in the design. I solved this 

problem by including another part of Mary’s story, the visitation with Elizabeth. Though a significant event,this is a part of the story I don’t recall hearing much about as a child being taught Mary’s story. I was therefore glad to have been able to make it a part of the pattern.

I was charmed by the bull and donkey as they appear in the tapestry, and included them in the pattern as the only beings watching over the baby Jesus.