Cathedral Dreams

(Exodus‬ ‭31‬:‭2‬-‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬) ““See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given ability to all the skilled workers to make everything I have commanded you:” This piece features 61 hours of garment construction and hand-beaded embroidery. It is paired with a draped cape, with a cross embroidered at the back. This was a conscious design choice by the Creative Director to express the truth that Jesus Christ made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross for us, His children. The bodice is constructed using patterned Kente, hand-painted with white paint in the form of a cross within a cupola, designed to mimic the intricate patterns of cathedral mosaic windows. A strapless curved neckline was chosen to further capture the effect of a domed ceiling. This piece is intended to pay homage to one of humanity’s longest-standing places of worship, found across the world as spaces to encounter Jesus and commune with God as a community. A cathedral is built by human hands, yet conceived by God, who also provides humanity with the resources to bring it into being. After all, the first individual whom God revealed to be filled with the Holy Spirit was an artisan. The ultimate Creator is the One who grants humanity both the ideas and the ability to create. Through this piece, the designer gives thanks to her Heavenly Father for the gifts with which He has blessed her.