Stations of the Cross Journal Journey #16

July 19, 2025.

Wow. I am here. After 6 months of sustained creation, I have gotten to the halfway point in this profound pilgrimage. Last night at 9:30 Station #7 was complete. “Mind Over Matter” illustrates the second fall of Jesus on the way to the cross. The reflection written for this Station inspired a design focussed on the times when our minds overwhelm us and cause us to fall.

What I reflect on today are my words written here last - that this Station will be dark. And yes, I was challenged to find in my fabric library all the dark blacks and greys needed for this piece, but the final feeling is not dark at all! It is bold and vivid, but not overwhelmingly a feeling of darkness. I love the composition of it, the fluid lines, the strong and clashing nature of the bright colours, and the alternately soothing neutral tones too. I was able to choose so many neutral colours with muddy undertones, usually discarded as options. This time, the muddier the better!! And yet, how much fun to choose reds and fuschias and purples that vibrate together. I am astounded by the effect of these vivid colours, but also by the light purple and dark black (which is actually a dark navy) next to each other. I searched my fabric boxes high and low for the right purple, and also had to choose blacks according to what I had in stock. I also love the result of using purposefully soiled linen for Jesus’ tunic. Only a couple more Stations with tunic worn - soon he will be stripped of his garments.

It felt like we worked quickly on this piece, but according to the dates it still took 3 weeks. There has been so much other sewing to do in the studio.

Today I wrap things up and leave for a 10 day summer vacation. Amazing! Though I have been uplifted so much by this journey, my body and mind are crying for a restorative pause. Today its nourishment begins. Thanks be to God. This is what I trust for today.