Jesus` Image
When thinking of the physical image of
Jesus Christ, one usually pictures a
middle aged white, bearded male. This
has been a common image for centuries;
however, it is now the year 2000 and
everything is changing. During this period
of change and to celebrate the
millennium and observe Christ’s birth, the
National Catholic Reporter
decided to sponsor an international contest which
invited artists to conceive
new images of Christ. Janet McKenzie’s painting
"Jesus of the People"
represents the complete antithesis of the common
overused image of Jesus.
McKenzie’s painting portrays Jesus as not white but
black, not male but
androgynous. Her image has shocked many and received many
varying responses.
Personally, I think that this portrayal is amazing. It’s
avant-garde and
ahead of the times. The world is changing in all aspects and I
believe that
this new image of Jesus is extremely appropriate in that the world
is no
longer predominately run by wealthy white males. Although some may not
accept
McKenzie’s work now, I think that in time it will become more and
more
appropriate and desirable. McKenzie’s Jesus seems to be calm and
relaxed. I
strongly agree with Sister Wendy Beckett’s comment of Jesus gazing
back at
viewers with "ineffable dignity." Although he/she appears to be at
ease,
he/she also suggests a state of Dombrowski 2 deep thought and
contemplation. His
physical characteristics and stance are also quite
interesting. As he/she stands
with his/her arms crossed and closed, he/she
still appears loving. I believe
that this feeling comes from his/her facial
expression. Yet although his/her
arms are crossed shut, it almost seems that
he/she is embracing someone or
something. It’s inviting as if he/she wants to
be holding the viewer. In
conclusion, Janet McKenzie’s "Jesus of the People"
is a work of art both
representative of the times yet parallel to old ideas.
I admire her courage to
portray Jesus in her personal unique view and respect
her vision. I believe that
it is time that our common image of Jesus
transforms into one which is more
universal and acceptable by all races and
both genders.