Ferguson painting "St. Martin de Porres" inspired by Catholicism and Buddhism, highlights racial harmony
"St. Martin de Porres was actually inspired by the niche on the building on which it was painting," explained artist Darcy Edwin. "It reminded me of the decorative niches in Florence, which are adorned by saints. I chose St. Martin de Porres as the subject, primarily because he is the Patron Saint of Racial Harmony, but also because he faced discrimination because he was of mixed race."
A sixteenth-century lay brother of the Dominican order, St. Martin was praised for his unconditional care of all people, regardless of race or wealth.
"In addition, I depicted him with a Buddhist hand gesture where the hand extending forward is the Abhaya Mudra," added Darcy. It represents reassurance, blessings, and protection, and translates to the message, 'Do Not Fear.'"
This painting is featured in our new coloring book, Painting for Peace: A Coloring Book for All Ages.
Perfect for all ages, Painting for Peace: A Coloring Book for All Ages is designed
for adults and children to color together and lets them join the hundreds of artists who transformed the community of Ferguson, MO by creating dazzling and inspiring works of art with messages of peace, love and community. Now, parents and grandparents can color with their little ones, or on their own, to create their own images based on the murals that brought real hope to the community after
months of tension.
This book features original street art pieces, as well as some new designs ranging from highly detailed zen-like mandalas to simpler expressions of love and empathy that young children will enjoy. A wonderful companion piece to the award-winning children’s picture book Painting for Peace in Ferguson that has been acclaimed as
a must-have by reviewers, teachers, parents, and kids alike.
All profits after cost will benefit Ferguson, surrounding communities.