Mary, Protector of Faith (Russo) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mary, Protector of Faith |
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| Artist | Jon-Joseph Russo |
| Year | 2000 |
| Type | Limestone |
| Dimensions | 190 cm × 61 cm × 51 cm (75 in × 24 in × 20 in) |
| Location | Washington, D.C., United States |
| 38°56′3.8″N 77°0′5.28″W / 38.934389°N 77.0014667°W | |
| Owner | Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception |
Mary, Protector of Faith is a beautiful sculpture created by American artist Jon-Joseph Russo. You can find this artwork at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., United States. It stands peacefully in a special place called Mary's Garden at the Basilica.
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What the Sculpture Looks Like
This sculpture is made from Limestone, a type of stone. It shows Mother Mary standing tall. She is holding a baby close to her chest. The baby is wrapped in a small blanket.
Mary wears a long robe that covers her whole body and her head. You can see her bare feet peeking out from under the robe. She also has long hair. She is looking to her right as she holds the baby. The sculpture stands on a square base. It is placed on the stone edge of a fountain.
About the Artist
The artist who created Mary, Protector of Faith is Jon-Joseph Russo. He lives and works in Washington, D.C.. Jon-Joseph Russo focuses on three main types of art. These are landscape design, creating sculptures, and designing furniture.
He studied sculpture at Alfred University. He also earned a master's degree in landscape architecture from Cornell University. His art is inspired by the Renaissance movement from Italy. In 1992, he moved to Washington and started his own company, Studio Russo. His work can be seen in many collections and landscapes.
Where to Find the Sculpture
The Mary, Protector of Faith sculpture is located in Mary's Garden. This garden is a special area for prayer and quiet reflection. It is found on the grounds of the Basilica. The garden was created to honor Mary. It is a place for visitors to think and pray.
The garden has a round fountain. There are also benches and small prayer spots. These are for people visiting the Basilica. Trees, flowering bushes, and white flowers surround the area. The white flowers represent Mary's purity.
How the Sculpture Was Made
The idea for this sculpture came from a contest. Artists submitted their ideas for the statue. The winning design was chosen to be created. Money for the sculpture came from the Diocese of Orlando. It also came from the National Council of Catholic Women.
The sculpture was dedicated to Bishop Emeritus of Orlando, Thomas Joseph Grady. He was a former director of the National Shrine. The dedication ceremony happened on June 10, 2000. More than 1,000 people attended the event.
