Client: Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing

Location: Lansing, United States

Completion date: 2016

Artwork budget: $25,000

Project Team

Artist

Chris Triola

Chris Triola Designs

Interior Designer

Judy Ford

Studio Intrigue

Overview

8' x 16' textile mural composed of five panels of pieced, stitched and fused layers of
studio produced cotton fabrics. Fabrics are designed from patterns found in the
environment, then knit, cut, arranged and fused in place. Each piece is top-stitched in place and then fused one last time on finished backing. Each panel is stretched on
wooden stretcher bars for final wall mount.

Goals

This was a commission for the new building of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing. The goal was to provide an inspirational piece for the large, sparse sanctuary that would reflect the values and spirit of the organization. All elements of the piece were open to my design. The final design reflects a sense of uplifting (hope) and harmony (peace) using natural colors and calming graphics to represent earth, water, sky and sun.

Process

The process began with an initial visit to my studio by the church administrative staff. I discussed my vision and showed samples of my work. After approval of initial ideas meetings were held with the architectural firm's interior designer. Carpet samples and paint swatches were given and a tour of the building (in progress) was arranged.

Additional Information

Combining the elements of my personal expression (textiles) with the spacial and spiritual needs of others provides the exciting creative challenge behind my work and takes me back to my roots as a painter. All elements are carefully considered for a genuine depth of expression in each final project.