The Holy Virgin Mary By Chris Ofili
Content In The Artwork
Chris Ofili is a renowned British Painter and Sculptor. One of his most famous yet very controversial works is this painting of the Holy Virgin Mary. It shows a black Virgin Mary painted in a vibrant and revealing yellow background. The painting exposes one breast, which is normal with the classical art pieces of the Virgin Mary. However, Ofili uses a less traditional mode of painting. Here, The Virgin Mary is seen staring straight ahead, maybe at her beholder. She has parted lips, wide eyes, and a blue gown that flows from her torso down to her amorphous base. The dress leaves wide spaces of her body open and embellished with elephant dung. She is surrounded by several butterflies created from vaginas and buttocks got from pornographic magazines.
Ofili’s Message to Christians and the General Public
Religion, race, and representation are perhaps the purpose of this highly controversial painting. Ofili transforms the Virgin Mary, a symbol of holy life, into a folkloric or exuberant image. Some of those who have criticized it view it as a piece that’s utterly defiant of religion and moral tradition (citation). However, it’s an attempt by Ofili to confront some of the most profound questions in his childhood, especially when it comes to explaining the concept of virgin mothers and race.
For instance, by using an ‘African-like’ mouth and flamboyant facial images, he draws the attention of the racial stereotypes hiding in our societies. He also wanted to challenge those who picture biblical figures as only white men and women. Ofili, in this painting, is merely trying to tell us to think about the possibilities of a black Virgin Mary. More specifically, which class of women is considered to be pure, holy, and viewed as symbols of ideal motherhood.
Is it Rebellious or Unique?
This piece of art was received well in England and Germany but caused substantial public uproar once it was exhibited in a New York gallery. Mayor Giuliani even threatened to cancel art funding after his lawsuit to cancel the exhibition was dismissed by the courts. The painting was also defaced by a pensioner who termed it to be blasphemous. Hence, this raises the question of whether Ofili was trying to be unique in his presentation of art or rebelling to the norms of society.
Upon closer look, it’s clear to see that he has a deep affection for the ‘black’ culture and its people. He uses a unique way of honoring celebrities and famous historical personalities like James Brown, Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, Miles Davis. All these are individuals who asked African-Americans to appreciate their identity, origin, and culture instead of continually trying to assimilate themselves into the life of the ‘white’ man. Furthermore, by depicting the Virgin Mary as a black woman, he improves their role and stature in their various communities. It’s, therefore, an innovative piece that reflects historical precedents while addressing the growing issue of identity politics and race that has and continues to plague our societies.
Why The ‘Virgin Mary’ Painting?
Ofili decided to paint the Virgin Mary instead of ‘Madonna’ or ‘The Monalisa’ because she is considered to be the pillar of the Catholic religion, a holy figure with high moral values and principles(citation). He was, however, puzzled on why every art piece portrays her as being ‘white.’ After all, the black Madonna is often viewed in different Catholic iconography both in the Caribbean and in Africa.
Probably the most intriguing and shocking aspect of this piece is its provocative nature. He is not afraid to question the morality of the Virgin Mary, which is her most holistic feature and one which worldly respected in Christian societies.