As Concordia’s community observes the progress of the CU Center renovations, anticipation has only grown for the final result. One of the most significant transformations will occur in the new narthex, which will feature a theologically rich permanent art installation designed by Missouri artist Carla Krazl.

Krazl specializes in multimedia Christian wall art, using wood, metal, glass and fabric to create striking pieces that enhance Christian spaces. Dr. Steven Mueller, Chief Mission Officer and Professor of Theology, and Professor Sara Fletcher of the art department worked together to commission Krazl for the unique potential of the CU Center narthex.

“Dr. Mueller reached out to a handful of people on campus to discuss with them the plans and design of the art for the narthex,” said Fletcher. “The vision was for the Tree of Life from Genesis and Revelation to be pictured at the two opposite sides of the narthex, united in the middle by a cross above the baptismal font.” 

“Our artist, Carla Krazl, a sculptor based in St. Louis who has worked on several church commissions, has been bringing the vision to life, in cooperation with Dr. Mueller's team,” Fletcher continued. “We have met with her a few times as she progresses with the concept, sketches and materials.”

Though it will be many months before any artwork can actually be installed in the narthex, the project is progressing well. Krazl provided updates and insights on her approach toward the design. “The planning phase is wrapped up,” said Krazl. “The designs have been selected, with minor tweaks to be made. I am beginning to work on sample materials and the engineering of making the pieces work. I hope to make a trip to campus to feel the space and get the vibe. Making will begin this summer. The shop is going to get busy!”

Krazl described her vision for the project in greater detail, outlining her intended materials. “The artwork on three walls can be described as relief sculpture,” she said. “They will be hung on the wall, yet have varying thicknesses. Designs will include wood and ceramic pieces, and a bit of glass. Maybe some metal? The natural limestone stone floor will also be purposefully designed and tell part of the story.”

She also detailed the theological significance of the design. “The Genesis version of the Tree of Life will be on the left wall as you enter the narthex from outside, and the Revelation version will be on your right,” she explained. “The Genesis version includes the shameful profiles of Adam and Eve, while the Revelation version incorporates a representation of the multitude of Saints. Between these trees, above the doors that give entry to the sanctuary, will be the Cross of Christ: the bridge for us sinners between exclusion and restoration, the Vine to our branches, giving access to the Water of Life.”

Due to the sacred nature of the space, the underlying theological significance of the artwork is a necessary and crucial aspect. The team behind the design was careful to ensure that the Christian doctrines were accurately and thoughtfully communicated. “There was discussion about whether Adam and Eve would appear beside the left Tree of Life, and how the multitude of saints might be pictured in the Revelation Tree of Life,” said Fletcher. “Ms. Krazl has created thoughtful solutions to these.” 

Fletcher offered a vivid description of the shared vision: "The trees will be from floor to ceiling, rich wood tones, with leaves constructed of ceramics with various glazes and possibly some glass, and Adam and Eve will appear, on second look, in the Genesis tree as negative space profiles.”

“The saints will likely appear about the Revelation tree as constellations of small mirrors and glass pieces at different angles,” Fletcher continued. “The veins in the twisting wood will be picked up in the cross as veins of water, perhaps being picked up subtly in the floor as rivers leading to and out from the baptismal font, which is carved of basalt rock.”

The scale of the installation will result in an immersive multimedia experience. “For this project, I’m most excited about working in the entire room,” said Krazl. “Three walls and the floor will be involved in telling the story of Genesis 3, John 15, and Revelation 22.”

As a Christian artist, Krazl approaches her projects with a mindset oriented towards the Lord. She outlined four central elements that inform her philosophy as an artist: “1. Work to His glory, and share Him whenever possible. 2. Keep asking “Wouldn’t it be cool if….?” 3. Make art that causes people to linger. 4. Design something awesome, and then figure out how to make it.”

She also identified two quotes that she both identifies with and embraces in her artistic approach. From Scripture, she cited Psalm 106:2, which reads: “Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the LORD or fully declare His praise?” She also quoted Eric Liddell, 1924 Olympic champion: “God made me fast, and when I run, I feel his pleasure.” 

“It has been a joy to see the vision unfolding and to hear the theology that Dr Mueller's team wishes to share, as well as to have the art embody, in a mysterious, gentle, and lasting way, for the visitors to the chapel,” said Fletcher.

“Every day, every step of the project is a prayer,” said Krazl. “I have a grand opportunity to share the story that He wants to tell! I ask Him over and over to send me on the right path for that.”

 

Tags: Visual Arts, abbeywest, faith

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