Cherubim

Cherubim

I have long been fascinated by the discrepancy between common depictions of religious icons and their descriptions in source material. The prevailing image of a Cherub is the comforting and non threatening plump child or baby, with white wings and rosy cheeks; The form of a child being used for its association with the widespread ideals of innocence and beauty. Early religious sources ascribe a wide range of physical and even shape shifting appearances to the Cherub. I have often found that earlier depictions of the divine aimed to strike fear into the viewer and garner reverence of beings associated with higher authorities. In this drawing, I have aimed to unsettle the viewer in my personal depiction of a Cherub, while still employing the many wings and beauty associated with the being.

Graphite on Paper, 2020. 9 x 12 inches.