“Mother of Exiles” and universal symbol of freedom, democracy, and friendship… Most call her the Statue of Liberty and she is the latest muse in my series of ladies.  There is more to know about this enormous beacon in the Hudson River.  In 1886, French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi completed this copper statue as gift from France to the United States, symbolizing international friendship. She also celebrates the Centennial of the Declaration of Independence.  She stands on broken shackles to represent the end of oppression and tyranny throughout the world.  The seven rays on her crown represent the seven continents and hope worldwide. While the French built and shipped her to New York, America had to raise money and build her pedestal.  After learning about my subject, I planned my portrait of this fine lady with goals to add interest, but know when to stop without going overboard.

Dame du monde libre

The artwork itself is a mixed media piece, creating a collaged quilt of symbolism within the garment wrapping the statue.  This paper collage was originally created with bright papers, french words, maps, international images, and then glazed to resemble an aged or antique feel.  Her figure is treated ruggedly. We are reminded of her copper beginning, which is now tarnished patina.   Paint was applied using only a palette knife, giving her texture and age, displaying her strength through withstanding elements.  Her torch illuminates against the dark background, symbolic to those who first saw her lighting their way to Ellis Island and the idea of new beginnings.  Liberty is spelled out in French, while “the power of choice” represents it’s powerful definition.

I am extremely happy with this finished piece.  I took a few risks with the glazing and palette knife, and they (thankfully) worked in my favor. And, by the way, Lady Liberty didn’t just remain in the Hudson River.  An American friend in Switzerland tells me that there is a small Statue of Liberty in Colmar, France. Would you believe another one sits in the Susquehanna River, just north of Harrisburg PA?  We all know there is one in Paris, and you can’t forget about her presence on the Las Vegas Strip.   My sister-in-law from Cairo even shared that the Statue of Liberty was initially a gift offered to Egypt (but they declined).  Who knew??  Obviously, my recent muse symbolizes a great ideal that our world is still painfully trying to obtain…maybe someday.