Inspiration from the Gardens
“Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness where His feet pass.”
-Morning Has Broken
St. Mary's is known for its beautiful contemplative gardens. These spaces are designed for rest, reflection, and encounter.
This installation draws its imagery directly from those landscapes and the changing seasons they embody.
A Foundation for the Seasons
At the heart of the installation is a versatile frontal system designed by Christina to evolve throughout the liturgical year.
A central ivory frontal, anchored by a Marian-inspired blue cross and framed by climbing vines, serves as the foundation. Using the Schaeffer System, seasonal overlays can then be added, allowing the visual focus of the worship space to shift while remaining connected to the overall design.
The Foundation
Created in ivory silk with a blue cross accented in goldwork, the base frontal establishes the core visual language of the installation. Tudor rose brocade columns and climbing vines provide a framework that remains present throughout the year.
Easter Overlay
For Eastertide, a vibrant floral overlay celebrates resurrection and new life. Flowers bloom across the frontal through a combination of raw-edge appliqué, thread painting, and bias appliqué, echoing the gardens that inspired the installation.
Christmas Overlay
For Christmastide, the focus shifts to evergreens surrounding a radiant Christmas Star. Machine embroidery, needle-turned appliqué, and goldwork create a rich seasonal expression while remaining visually connected to the underlying design.
Together, these elements allow the installation to grow and change with the church year—reflecting the seasons of worship while maintaining a cohesive visual identity throughout the sanctuary.
The Language of the Garden
Flowers, climbing vines, and seasonal growth patterns appear throughout the work, creating a visual language that reflects both the gardens and the rhythms of the church year.
Details
The cross design on the frontal, veil, and vestments is based on a the blue cross that caught my attention during the site visit.
The Paraments
Vestments
Rooted in Place, Designed for Worship
The most meaningful designs begin by paying attention—to the architecture, landscape, traditions, and stories that already shape a community. Together, these elements become the foundation for textiles created specifically for your church and its worship life.