EIKON

i'con, n.; pl. i'cons, i'co-nes [L., from
Gr. eikon, an image, figure, likeness.]
1. an image; figure; representation; picture.
2. in the Orthodox Eastern Church, a sacred image
or picture of Jesus, Mary, a saint, etc.
Also spelled ikon, eikon.

This piece incorporates both definitions.

Combining sacred images of pre-Christian and Christian eras shows the continuum of people's faiths, because either similar symbols are used or the old symbols are still readily understandable. The "old faith" is depicted through symbols of the woodlands god Cernunnos. The antlers and the horned serpent were identified with this Celtic god, who was revered from Ireland to the Urals. This worship is summarized for me by the Gaelic expression "Borin san Oiche" (Boreen san ooeche), "Path in the night (darkness)." This is written Ogham script. On the other side of the frame is the Latin expression "Transite in lucem" (Trans-ee-teh een lu-chem), "Passing into the light," which brings the piece into the Christian era.

The Christian symbols in the center include a Celtic cross, an altar and a stylized drop of blood representing the sacrifice in both faiths, and the symbols for the persons of the Trinity. The galaxy is representative of creation, order out of chaos.

Special thanks to Father Tom Jordan of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church for his help with the Gaelic and to Dr. John Adams, California State University Northridge, for his help with the Latin.