Bestiarium Beatum is born from my love of religious art, and the wonderful animals of the fields, woods, and waters around us.
I am fascinated with the stories and depictions of Saints of the Middle Ages. Saints are typically depicted with objects and symbols meant to convey their stories and virtues. I use the same visual language to illustrate threatened or at risk animals in the UK, to tell their tales and express a well-earned devotion to them.
Sanctus Herinacius
Traditionally, Christian martyrs are depicted in blood-red robes, holding a palm branch, and the means of their demise. Think for example of St Paul holding a sword, or St Bartholomew holding his own skin!
I have honoured our long-suffering hedgehogs in the same way.
Patron Saint of: Drivers and Gardeners.
Sanctus Vespertilius
For decades, there has been only one Greater Mouse-Eared Bat in all the UK. A single male has been hiding out in a tunnel in Sussex, probably originating from a colony on the mainland.
I have imagined him as a hermit, dedicated to a life of solitary contemplation - symbolised by the traditional symbols of St Joseph: the white cord and the lilies.
Patron Saint of: Hermits, Thinkers, and Single People.
Larus Stella Maris
In spite of appearances, our gulls are not doing well. Largely due to over-fishing and pollution, herring gull numbers are plummeting - they are now red-listed for conservation.
Painted in the style of Byzantine icons of Maria Stella Maris - the Star of the Sea.
Patron Saint of: Surfers, Sailors, and all those who love the Sea.
Aper Dei
Long before the Cross of St George became the flag of England, the red cross on a white field was often used in depictions of the Agnus Dei - the Lamb of God. In this context, the flag is a symbol of Christ’s resurrection, and his victory over death.
I have drawn on this mediaeval symbol for my tribute to the boar, who are having a ressurection of sorts of their own - reconquering England after being hunted to extinction centuries ago.
I have also drawn on depictions of St John the Baptist, often shown with a plate holding his head, to show the threats the magnificent boar still faces.
Patron Saint of: Foresters, Ramblers, and Cooks.
