David Versluis’s Biblical Character, “Leah” — after Elizabeth Catlett’s “Glory”

Leah 2016 

Archival pigment print. 24 x 18 inches.
After Elizabeth Catlett (American 1915-2012)
Glory (Glory Van Scott, b. 1941, producer, performer, educator, and civic activist)
Cast bronze, life-size, 1981

This is a special effects/enhanced photograph by David Versluis of an Elizabeth Catlett life-size cast bronze sculpture titled Glory (1981). Catlett’s piece is in the permanent collection of the Muskegon Museum of Art. Versluis’s recreated portrait is intended to convey a powerful dignity, serenity, justice and hope that suggests aspects of the biblical character, Leah.

This artwork is part of an exhibition of visual work/poetry that responds to the theme of Leah in the book of Genesis. This exhibition is a wonderful collaborative fine arts event organized by Northwestern College’s art, English and music departments. The show opened February 15 and runs until the 26th in Northwestern’s Te Paske Gallery in Orange City, Iowa.

The main event is a reception on Monday evening, February 22, at 7 p.m. in the college’s Te Paske Gallery. In addition to the artwork there will be writings and music performed by community members.