With this body of work, I am examining the juxtaposition of history- ical and contemporary iconography. The focus is on disequilibrium, the break in continuity between man and nature, between man’s mythological and religious roots and what is perceived as current icons. Through the viewer’s perceptions of historical references, I am introducing the consciousness of a modern day social and economic context.

My early work focused on the Book of Kells, which was calligraphed and illuminated in or about 8A.D. As the work progressed, I expanded to include illuminated manuscripts from later periods, and also Persian manuscripts. The early artists of these books were charged with making manuscripts that would stir the soul and dazzle the eye, which they accomplished with gold and painted decoration, and with charming miniatures.

The process I utilize involves layering my photo- graph into a manuscript, such as the text of St. Matthew from the Book of Kells, and then overlaying the photograph with elements of the manuscript, so that the transition is seamless. The early manuscripts were calligraphed and illuminated in Latin. I alter the text in Latin to reflect my interpretations and photo- graphs. I print the work on parchment or vellum, which I edge in gold leaf.

Ultimately, this work involves seduction. Much as the religions of the middle Ages used the beauty and pageantry of religious icons to ritualize and promote their beliefs, I am implementing and appropriating spiritual iconography to express contemporary moral dilemmas. I usually photograph examples I find of man’s willful dominance over nature, such as an oiled bird struggling on a California beach.

--Marguerite Garth