The following is my dissenting opinion of the Decision by the Elders of Ecclesia to remove Jackson's Station, and although I do not agree with the decision, I do respect the decision and understand why they made it.
First off I felt he did what he was asked to do, he reflected on Christ's journey to the cross and this is what he thought best represented a modern interpretation of his specific station. He wasn't asked to take pictures of a cute fluffy easter bunny, but to reflect on Christ's suffering during His journey to the cross, in order to better understand the sacrifice Jesus offered himself up to, on our behalf. Likewise I think his piece was perfectly in line with the mission of the gallery and not allowing it to be shown is in contradiction of that mission, which is "To Spark Spiritual Dialogue through the exhibition of works that integrate faith and art."
Although I did not participate in the decision or discussion leading to the removal of this piece. I felt the solution arrived at by the Curator (between the one family in the congregation with potential deep personal connection with the piece and the artist's family) to hang a curtain in front of the piece with a sign warning of its graphic nature, was the most reasonable solution for all parties involved. This would still allow the one family to attend church and enter the sanctuary without fear. It would make the piece inaccessible to the younger children 2-5 years old. Older children could discuss the image with their parents and its symbolism relating to the Stations of the Cross, and most importantly this would allow the piece to be viewed, by those who chose to, in its proper context as part of a fifteen piece exhibit on Jesus's journey to the cross and ultimately his resurrection.
Eric Hartley
Former Curator and Member of the Gallery's Board of Directors
Father of children ages 2, 5, & 7
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I think this is an excellent portrayal, and it speaks volumes about Jackson's talent at such a young age.
ReplyDeleteIf Ecclesia Church believes this is too disturbing, then perhaps they should try reading the bible.
Jon, I think the assumption in your statement, that the church "has not read the bible," is quite ludicrous, and in poor taste. Simple, dismissive talk such as your comment glosses over the actual issues at hand and devolves the discussion into finger pointing and a blame game.
ReplyDeleteIt is not that the church finds the piece too disturbing, but rather that the elders of the church believe that the piece could deeply affect the small children who frequent the space each week with their families who are worshiping.
Is it a judgment that I agree with? No. Is it one I can understand? Yes. Does this mean that it is too disturbing for church? No. Most of the members with whom I have talked have concurred that it is a moving and powerful piece.
- Marc Brubaker
Curator, Xnihilo Gallery