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Shaping Ideas Blog


Sculpture of Veronica

When we started working on the monumental Stations of the Cross for Cloisters on the Platte several years ago, we recognized the virtues of Veronica, a key figure in Station VI. We had planned from the beginning to recast her as an individual, iconic figure. This week, a 1/2 life size version, about 32" tall, will be turned over to the foundry to be molded and cast in bronze.

It is very appropriate to be working on Veronica right now. As a symbol of compassion, her image could not be more timely. Here, in the City of Portland, we are preparing for a gathering of white supremacist groups this weekend. In sharp contrast to the hate and fear of her time, Veronica wiped the face of Jesus and comforted Him as accusers jeered and taunted Him.

We hope that compassion and human kindness prevail this weekend and that the spirit of compassion can overcome attempts to pervert civilized interaction and respect.


ESS Gallery, Portland Oregon

Many thanks to all who attended the Grand Opening of our new ESS Gallery this past weekend. The epic remodel of our building and studio space included a 2500 square foot gallery. We are very please to finally have space to display the work of several of our team.

In addition to an extensive collection of Marty's bronze sculptures, we are also showing sculptures by Chas Martin and Blaise McGettigan. Abstract painter, Barry Mack is also among the artists we now represent.

Gallery Hours:

Wed-Fri 12-5PM

Thurs 12-7PM

2516 SE Division, Portland, OR

Please come visit our new Gallery space and enjoy the art!

Chas Martin - Firedancer, mixed media sculpture
Blaise McGettigan - Morning Run Sculptor

We are resizing the figures from The Stations of the Cross installed last year at the Cloisters On the Platte in Nebraska. The initial bronze sculptures of 58 figures were approximately 7’ tall. This new scaled series is ¼ life size, about 18” tall. We are also resizing the bronze figures to ½ life size, or about 36” tall. All are available for purchase. Contact us for details.

Station #6 depicts the reaction by one of the holy women of Jerusalem as she realizes the miracle in her hand.

As Jesus dragged the cross along the Via Dolorosa toward Calvary, Caesarea Philippi, offered her veil to wipe blood and sweat from His face. The image of His face remained on her veil.

According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, the vera icon, or the true image, became known as The Veronica. The woman was canonized as St. Veronica in 1885.

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