St. Kateri Tekakwitha -Original Watercolor Painting
First Native American Saint
A Year of Saints: Created as part of the A Year of Saints Collection. Learn more about this collection and the outlook that shaped my process HERE.
Details: An original painting, unframed, 4.5x6 inches, pencil outline layered in high quality watercolor pigments on cold-pressed (textured) paper. Artist's initials clearly visible in fine-tipped brown art pen.
Watercolor paintings develop layer by layer until the portrait comes into focus — glowing and intricate. This particular piece is as youthful and vibrant as its subject!
Known as the Lily of the Mohawks, Saint Kateri here is depicted in a reverent pose, holding a bouquet of lilies and corn stalks, a union of her title and heritage. I used a round brush for this piece, and controlled the watercolor layers such that they blended rather than sat visibly on top of oneanother. This gives the colors and shading a more delicate air, as the outline is the only real harsh line. I particularly love the folds of her veil, which she wore to protect her eyes from the sun.
Inspiration: Saint Kateri Tekekwitha is a beloved American saint who lived in a time of strife between Native Americans and Europeans. She embraced Catholcism and courageously suffered illness, blindness, and ridicule from all sides.
I was deeply influenced by the conversation of racism, and painted this portrait when arguments against "white-washing" were trending on social media this summer.
As with all the saints, I researched tirelessly to honor Kateri's true heritage rather than rely completely on my limited imagination. I was concerned, but not surprised, by the discovery that many depictions of St. Kateri actually portray "stereotypical" Native American clothing rather than what her tribe actually wore. I hope I have redered a fair representation, taking care even in the details on her veil and hems.
I try to discover what each saint is "saying" on their feast day by discerning elements that strike me most particularly. Kateri's message is clear and echoes that of Our Lady: Catholicism is for all peoples, and everyone can be a saint.
Framing: I imagine this painting matted in a neutral or warm color to complement the palette of her clothing and best showcase the portrait. I'd set it in a frame that fits in with your home’s aesthetic, or in a simple, thin metalic.
More information on how to best preserve and frame your artwork will come with your painting shippment. Please feel free to email me at rosalie.ardentdraws@gmail.com with any other questions!
