At the Catholic National Cathedral in Washington D.C., leaders are preparing to usher in a new, progressive era with the help of artist Kerry James Marshall.
For decades, two stained glass windows have tainted the welcoming, diverse atmosphere of the National Cathedral, and in 2016 the Church finally opted to remove the hateful image. Pictured on the two panes was a memorial of Robert E Lee, Stonewall Jackson, and a commemoration for Confederate soldiers. The windows created a partition between Black members and the rest of the Church, and to heal this wound, cathedral officials searched for a way to portray the importance of racial equality in America.
In September of 2021, the Cathedral announced its partnership with renowned Black artist Kerry James Marshall to create a new image of inclusion. Marshall is historically recognized for his large-scale abstractions of Black figures, and often incorporates social issues into his work. National Cathedral officials believe his style, commitment, and passion align seamlessly with the image they seek to produce.
In addition to Marshall’s envisioned design, award-winning poet Elizabeth Alexander will write a piece to be inscribed on the stone frame of the window. Together, both artists’ work will address the issue of racial justice and equality in America.
Marshall said, “Right now I don’t have a clear concept of what I think I will do. It will have to be work that is able to synthesize a multiplicity of ideas and sentiments about what the country represents for all of us. There will be some kind of imagery that presents itself as an invitation to reflect on the meaning of America now.”
The windows are expected to showcase the Spring of 2023, and all are welcome to join the National Cathedral in ushering in a period of justice and equality.
