Andrew Gow's 'Prayer of the Meek' explores the intertwining themes of innocence, power, and faith, offering a deep and thought-provoking artistic experience. It is a contemplative piece that questions the ideals of meekness within the Christian doctrine, inspired by the biblical verses from Matthew 5:5 and Psalms 37:11. The figures, reminiscent of sculptures from a Christian religious exhibition in Florence, embody the tension between the ecclesiastical power structure and the virtue of humility. The young girl, central in the piece, represents devotional prayer and innocence, yet there is an unsettling sexualisation in her portrayal, highlighting the dichotomy between the sacred and the profane.
The painting challenges the viewer to consider the protection offered by faith and the potential threats within its hierarchy. Cypress trees at the top symbolise a reach towards the divine and the presence of death, reinforcing the work's spiritual introspection.
This canvas is not just a visual narrative but also a palimpsest; the Agnus Dei prayer in Latin forms the foundational layer, with the figures painted over it. The text is re-emphasised in parts, creating a symbolic dance of revelation and concealment. Gow's experience while painting a portrait of Cardinal Pell in the Vatican, who was confronting the institution's financial controversies, further infuses the piece with a sense of revelation and power dynamics.
This piece reflects Gow's exploration of dramatic religious figures and the compelling nature of calligraphic Latin text, which he likens to casting a spell.
