Karen McCann

There is a trend towards “green” cremation for several reasons: ecologically, monetarily, spiritually, among other things. But it also means there may be fewer and fewer decorative statues erected in honor of the deceased. My fear is that the beauty and serenity I find at cemeteries will become obsolete. I am experiencing a pull to document this and how it’s important it to me - if only for my children and grandchildren.

I understand the cemetery will be with us for generations hopefully, but the understanding and religious significance may become lost to future generations, if they are not true believers in a higher power.

This piece is original photography blended with two other photos from my local park to create a dream-like image and printed onto linen. Hand stitching gives a softness and humanness to the inanimate object. The viewer can experience some of the peace I get from finding these gems at my local cemetery.

I believe my Damsel has been guiding me in both my photography and how I chose to create this textile piece. I have matured into my own thinking (spiritually) and finally been able to abandon my childhood notions of who I need to follow or let lead me into my future. My Damsel has stood beside me through my experiences in adulthood to finally claim her rightful place as a free thinking, creative artist, who is carving her own path forward.

Stone Mystery 2022 11” x 14” Photograph/Textile Art NFS Memories.kmccann@gmail.com Karenmccannart.com