Martin Scorsese is arguably the greatest living film director. He is also very active in the preservation of notable movies from around the globe. The punning title of the painting alerts the viewer to its design: it is based on traditional Catholic paintings of Mater Dolorosa, which show the seven sorrows of the Virgin Mary (one being her son’s crucifixion), and a sword (or seven!) piercing her heart, and a halo. I have borrowed the heart from Mandirano’s Heart of Mary. Its faux-realistic look is a powerful image, which symbolizes the realistic and graphic nature of Scorsese’s depictions of violence. Also, it guards against what could otherwise be construed as a celebration of violence. The halo represents the esteem in which Scorsese is held in the world of cinema. Scorsese is shown in a moment of triumph, happily brandishing his Oscar, which scene ironically contrasts in tone with those from his movies. Except for his eyes, he is painted in black and white, a symbol of his love of classic movies, and to place the emphasis on his work rather than his appearance.

The movies sampled are, from bottom left: Taxi Driver, The Irishman, Silence, Cape Fear, The Last Temptation of Christ, Casino, and Goodfellas. The three crosses at the top recall those on Golgotha, at Christ’s crucifixion. There are many gold accents to echo the circles around the seven tableaux: the Oscar, a wristwatch, a ring, cufflinks, the handle of the knife. And a yellow tab on the camouflage jacket. The knife is a traditional Italian stiletto.

Title: Mater Marty

Medium: Acrylic paint