"Both are modern artists, but they are keenly aware of continuity with history and tradition," said the Rev. Paul Johnston, Community Arts Chaplain at the Cathedral. "They both have done extensive work with installations in historic sacred spaces, and approach the matter with great sensitivity."

"Labyrinth Parts I and II," by Kripal, display this harmony sought by both artists. "My inspiration is the labyrinth as a symbol for the passage of life from birth to death to rebirth," said Kripal. "The labyrinth-like sculptures sited in Trinity cathedral are based on the trefoil designs, a symbol for the Trinity, found throughout the architecture of Trinity Cathedral. I see them as ‘stone flowers,’ one opening up and one closing down the cycle of life."

Mongrain used the breadth of salvation history to stand behind his work titled "The Mountains of Oration," which was situated above the Cathedral’s pulpit. After scouring Scripture, he found mention of twenty-six significant mountains. From that palette, Mongrain chose Ararat, Sinai and Olivet for scaled representation in his piece. "It is amazing how richly mountains play into oration in the Bible," he said. He chose the mountains to represent God’s covenants with Noah and Moses, and finally the New Covenant in Christ. "Olivet might not have been the most visually exciting of the three, being more of a hill than a mountain, but it’s the most powerful in meaning," Mongrain continued.

The featured artists very much appreciated the cooperation and support of the Cathedral’s staff. "Fr. Johnston was delightful to work with," said Mongrain. "He was very thoughtful and positive through the whole process."

Johnston was equally pleased with the fruits of this collaboration. "It has seemed to our Bishop, the Cathedral Provost, and myself that we must own our location in Pittsburgh's 'Cultural District.' My background is in the arts and media. Hence, my ministry is supported in part by a chaplaincy grant from [the trustees of] the Diocese and by the mission-minded people of Trinity Cathedral just so we can encourage happenings like this one. We minister with art and we minister to the community of artists."

-posted July 8, 2008-