"Given and Received"

"Given and Received" is an intimate installation that includes a handmade book filled with pages of Biblical scriptures, prayers, photographs, and collages. The maps, stamps, and photos reference the literal and spiritual journey of life. The leather bound book rests on a handmade podium; a wooden stand that shows the wear of use. Two candles illuminate the sacred text and act as a symbol of God's presence among us. A photograph of my grandmother's hands is a prominent component in the piece. The photograph has been printed onto a piece of semi-shear fabric and machine stitched using a free motion sewing technique. Aged and weathered, her hands are open, a posture that represents one's life as an offering poured out for others. This posture is also one of surrender and suggests a readiness to receive. Behind the photograph hangs a long piece of handwoven, hand-dyed cloth. Historically, weaving has been seen as a meditative practice with spiritual significance, an ancient language of transformation through pattern, or the intertwining of elements to form a whole. In this case, the cloth implies a transference of wisdom, knowledge, and truth - things passed down from one generation to the next. I was raised with my beliefs and my faith in God has shaped my world view.

I began this project out of a personal need. I try to begin each morning with prayer, meditation, and Bible reading. I wanted to create a consolidated grouping of scriptures as they related to various topics of interest. That way, I can flip to a particular section of my notes and use the scriptures as an aid to structure my prayers. For example, if I am feeling anxious or stressed out, I can turn to a collection of scripture and read, “I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4).

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:6-7).

My faith has been an ongoing exploration and continues to be a recurring theme in my art. "Given and Received" is an example of how art becomes life/ life becomes art. It's more of a reflection into my heart and my daily processes than a gallery piece. I'm sensitive to the fact that not everyone believes what I do or shares in the Christian faith. I'm not trying to change anyone's life, I'm just sharing mine.

"Given and Received" will be included in an exhibition which opens this Friday at the ACME Art Studios called: 20/20, Filters of Light and Insight. Curated by Grey Pascal, the exhibition explores the concept of perception filters and how they affect the way people see things (both positively and negatively). Approaches and interpretations to this include filters of light in a literal sense, cultural and religious filters, love, chemical influences, and even psychedelic patterns and color.


"Given and Received" by Leslie Pearson
81" x 20" x 25, 2010
Digitally printed fabric (machine stitched and hand-tinted), handwoven and dyed cloth, handmade wooden stand (painted and distressed), hand bound book with collage elements and printed photographs, hand-sewn and dyed leather cover with brass etching. Hand rolled beeswax candles.