Artist: Gisele da Silva
Title: Madonna XXI
Medium: Original Oil & mixed media on panel, framed
Size: 8" x 8"
Artist Statement: 
 
Madonna XXI reimagines the Byzantine Madonna (Theotokos) as a visual conversation with the song “rest in Me” from the King Will Come’s album conversations with God.
In this solemn oil painting, Mary appears alone with eyes gently closed in prayerful surrender. Her serene presence and inward focus echo the lyrics’ tender invitation: “I see you… Just give Me your burdens… Rest in Me.” The quiet stillness captures God’s nearness amid weariness and brokenness — “Wrap you in My arms and walk you home.”
Rooted in ancient icon tradition yet painted with luminous oils, the work offers a timeless reminder that we were never meant to carry life’s burdens alone. It invites viewers into sacred rest and divine companionship.