A Chrysalis, Opening
Ceramic
By Patricia Jahla
(Although butterflies aren’t specifically mentioned in the Bible, the transfiguration from caterpillar to butterfly has undeniable spiritual significance.)
Hand-built using native clay dug and processed by the artist; saggar fired. Clay is my prayer language and the studio is my prayer closet. I combine my pursuit of archeology, geology, art, and my love of the Lord to produce work which I pray will touch the hearts of viewers.
The emergency of the butterfly from its chrysalis is a metaphor often used to portray the transition of a soul into the saving grace of Christ, or even the Resurrection of Christ. From the grubby, bumbling status of the caterpillar, through the shroud of the chrysalis, emerges one of the most beautiful creatures on earth, a redeemed soul, a butterfly, free to soar.