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Chuck Kirchner

Incarnate from the Virgin Mary

Photograph

Artist Statement: “For in these last days, you sent him to be incarnate from the Virgin Mary, to be the Savior and Redeemer of the world.” Eucharistic Prayer B, Holy Eucharist Rite II.

Visiting the New Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion in Axum, Ethiopia, I was drawn to this woman in fervent prayer before the painting of the Virgin and the child Jesus. The translucent drape covering the painting added a sense of the spirit, of the mystery, of her prayer rising up. It was a special moment as an observer to feel a connection with the prayer of another and to create an image that continues to bring back that moment to me.

Bio: Chuck Kirchner is a photographer and workshop leader based in Tucson, Arizona (having recently relocated from Bainbridge Island, Washington). His subjects include rituals, dance, spirituality, and world cultures. The range of photographs represents the spirit of the places Chuck has had the privilege of visiting over the years and the people met along the way. The challenge for the photographer is to convey the emotional sense of being there - from serene and solemn to sensual and exuberant. Chuck’s photographs have the ability to capture the season, the sensations, the memories and, most importantly, the spirit of place and of life. The tools of the trade involve technical acumen, artistic vision, patience, good timing, and, of course, a bit (or lot) of serendipity.