I am so excited to bring attention to Margaret Shepherd’s current exhibit, Song of Songs, which is on display at the First Church of Boston.
I visited Margaret Shepherd this past March when she had a smaller show at St. Bolotoph’s. Now, with the addition of 8 new pieces, Song of Songs, will be a marvel to behold. Margaret meticulously sculpts and colors the type to convey the full spectrum of emotion expressed in each verse.
Personally, I see Solomon’s Song of Songs as a Biblical phenomena. These verses are life-affirming, sexually passionate, and completely unlike anything else in the Bible. These texts are hidden jewels! If you live anywhere near Boston, treat yourself. The exhibit will be on display in the First Church of Boston through November 19, 2017.
I will definitely head up to Boston shortly, and report back…
The following are Margaret’s words…copied from her Facebook page regarding the Song of Songs’ opening, October 13, 2017-
“This calligraphy exhibit showcases 40 verses from the Song of Solomon. A much-debated book of the Bible, it is unlike anything else in Christian and Jewish scripture. It mentions Solomon only three times and the name of God not even once; it has no battles or genealogies or miracles; it is simply treasured as some of the world’s most exquisite, explicit love poetry.
The artist will offer remarks on her series, focusing on her process for designing written art: choosing the text, designing the layout, selecting translations, and other artistic choices she makes.
Margaret Shepherd is halfway through her five-year project of interpreting the complete Song of Solomon in modern calligraphy. Her specialty has always been to use traditional letters in new and innovative designs. Here, her creative choices of color, style, ornament, and layout give the rather fresh insights into these timeless words.”
To glimpse an understanding of Margaret Shepherd’s process go to http://margaretshepherd.blogspot.com/
The exhibit will be on display in the First Church of Boston through November 19, 2017.