STAR OF BETHLEHEM 

Editor: This is "Star of Bethlehem," an oil painting by Jon McNaughton. The landscape is sparse, dominated by the night sky, and there's a sense of journey as the three figures make their way across the terrain. What strikes you most about this piece? Curator: Ah, yes. McNaughton... It’s a deeply devotional painting, isn’t it? Almost a visual hymn, if that makes sense. The bright star—the visual and spiritual focus—really pulls you upward. I always imagine the Magi seeing that star for the first time, just struck dumb with awe, thinking about journeys they undertake to find something greater than themselves. Do you get any of that? Editor: Definitely! The star really pops against the darker background, and I do get a sense of that pilgrimage. What about the almost harsh realism of the landscape – is that intentional? Curator: Absolutely! It speaks to the difficulty of their quest, and reminds us that faith isn’t always a gentle stroll through a manicured garden, sometimes faith demands to trek over difficult terrain. But also note that even this bare landscape has some gold tones in the palette which elevates its tone above despair. The artist also frames our magi with olive trees a symbol of peace. Ultimately, it feels full of hope, like dawn's just around the corner. Do you see the star's reflection lighting the dark cave? Editor: Yes, now I see it, I was focusing only on the magi and the harshness of the scene. I suppose it's a reminder that even in bleak settings, there is always a light. Curator: Exactly! Art’s funny that way, isn’t it? You think you know what you see, then a bit of conversation unlocks whole new worlds within the same frame. Thanks for pointing the way. Editor: Thanks for all the insights, this image shows both harshness and divinity in one single work of art.