With those words, I was hooked.  All I could see were these really huge faces with eyes looking right into my soul, pleading for something they could not name.  I believe I was given a vision at that long ago World Missions Conference to create portraits of particular individuals that could each represent a specific “people” or ethnic group, encouraging Christians “here at home” to become involved in the global mission to reach the world for Jesus Christ!

I looked through hundreds of photographs to find just the right kinds of faces; faces that  would make contact with the viewer through their gazes.  I searched in particular for ones that seemed to ask, even plead, for a response, from me, from you!  Perhaps this person wanted understanding, or recognition, and another was looking for love, or even reconciliation.  These portraits are also intended to show a great appreciation and a deep respect for the unique qualities of cultures other than my own.

 

Yet my area of artistic expertise and expression was in textiles!  So, combining some past experience of making applique banners and a love of sewing with the design elements of tonal value and real textures,  I have been able to bring these faces to “life” in a unique way.

CLICK ON THE EYES ABOVE  to lead you on a journey through “Faces of the World”!