The Stations of the Cross
A 17-year project brought to life.
How it started:
In 2009, renowned liturgical fabric artist Karen Brodie felt a calling to the design of the 14 Stations of the Cross: a mini-pilgrimage of Jesus’ journey from condemnation by Pilate to the Cross. Each design was inspired by a reflection and prayer from one of 14 diverse, international, ecumenical clergy, personally invited by Karen. These designs, meant to be one day created in fabric appliqué, were toured across southern British Columbia on 5 separate occasions.
After Station 9, Shattered, was completed as an experiment in fabric for an exhibition in 2017, Karen has now completed the monumental feat of bringing all 14 Stations to life in vibrant textile art. The production process began in January of 2025 and was completed in December of that same year. It is estimated that some of the finished Stations required nearly 300 pieces, all individually cut by hand and machine-sewn in Karen's home studio. The result is a deeply moving and inclusive spiritual experience. Even during early tours and showings of the sketches, participants from all spiritual backgrounds have found the art powerful and meaningful.
Where we're at:
In January 2026, the complete 14 Stations of the Cross fabric series premiered at Il Centro Italian Cultural Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia. It was received with fervent awe and astonishment. Curator Dr. Angela Clarke called the exhibition "awe-inspiring," noting, "This was one of the few exhibitions where people came back multiple times — that says it all." She wrote to Karen that it was profound because it “created community”.
Other witnesses of the artwork have connected the Stations to journeys within personal grief and healing. Many were taken not only by the brilliance of the Karen's mastery, but the artwork's ability to convey love, acceptance, and contemplation during these turbulent times — sentiments that were present for many individuals across a variety of faiths and spiritual backgrounds.
Where we're going:
Now, Karen and her team in Golden BC are working to bring the Stations to more venues and spaces — first in Canada, and then globally. Currently, spaces and opportunities for Lent 2027 are being booked, and early conversations are encouraged for venues who may wish to bring this powerful artwork to their community.
Additionally, while the Stations themselves are not for sale, they have been translated into meditative tools where both the artwork and the accompanying reflections are as a one-of-a-kind art project. This includes our first ever 40-card Reflection Card Deck, as well as a subscription-based monthly mail club featuring special access to printed art cards and other exclusive products.
We invite you to join us in experiencing this transformational work with events and opportunities for support.
What are the Stations of the Cross?
The Stations of the Cross, or the "Way of the Cross," is a spiritual journey that follows Jesus’ steps from condemnation to the tomb. Traditionally made up of 14 scenes, it invites prayer and reflection especially during Lent and Holy Week, yet also connects us with Jesus and all human strife throughout the year.
The Birth of a Lifelong Project
Since 2009, Karen has been creating a series of these ‘Stations’ as fabric artwork. Each design, now completed, is inspired by a reflection and prayer from one of 14 diverse, international, ecumenical clergy, personally invited by Karen. The result is a deeply moving and inclusive spiritual experience. Even during early tours and showings of the sketches, participants from all spiritual backgrounds have found the art powerful and meaningful.
Bringing the Stations to Life
Throughout 2025, Karen has dedicated the whole year to bringing all 14 Stations to life in fabric appliqué — a monumental undertaking for 12 months! Once completed, the full series will debut in Vancouver — January 22nd, 2026 — for a three-month exhibit. The show will include in-gallery events, retreats, and devotional mini-pilgrimages which will offer a space to reflect on themes of life, death, and resurrection.
Karen’s hope is that this artwork will speak to everyone, wherever they are on their spiritual journey.
View the original sketches of the Stations below, and find the full playlist of in-depth reflections and artist descriptions that accompany each Station.
Still curious? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more.
