My Christmas is rooted in tradition. We celebrate the birth of baby Jesus on Christmas Day. Then on the 6th of January, we celebrate the Epiphany as Three Kings Day. Christmas celebrations in Puerto Rico last until February 2nd, the Candelaria day, in honor of Virgen del Carmen when the Christmas trees get burned to honor the Virgin. And if you're a kid, then you are in luck because the night of January 5th, you put a box with some grass for the camels to eat underneath your bed and the next morning there are presents inside that box! Yes, school will begin by the 8th or 9th of January to honor the length of our Christmas season.
The Three Kings are mayor of this island. You'll see so many interpretations done by artisans. They would simply blow your mind! I have made the Three Kings a part of my base, as they journey to bring presents to the Baby Jesus.
I had seen photos of the Ostensorium, but nothing prepares you quite like getting it in your hands! I have to tell you, the minute you touch it your brain starts spinning with possibilities. I've seen a few interpretations so far and they all just take my breath away.
Those that follow me on Instagram saw this image back in October, when I started working on my piece. The wreath that hugs the entrance represents plantain leaves. In the family of bananas and heliconias, it is a very typical and very big leaf that can easily be associated with the tropics. The bold chartreuse color is very much real. It was my spin on a Christmas wreath to frame the Nativity.
I used Apoxie Sculpt® to turn the two Frozen Charlottes from the Milagros set into Mary and Joseph. I also used it to sculpt relief work over the wood and to make baby Jesus.
I hope this Season brings you Joy and Peace and continues to bless you with the gift of creativity. Merry Christmas everyone!
Supply list:
Relics & Artifacts "Milagros"
Relics & Artifacts Ostensorium
Apoxie Sculpt®
ColourArte Silk Acrylic glaze (for all that shimmer)
Guilder's Paste
Inka Gold