Crucifix c. 1936

Juanita Donahoo made this watercolor titled 'Crucifix', the dimensions are 35.6 x 24.5 cm. Juanita Donahoo’s “Crucifix” gives us an intimate glimpse into the intersection of faith and material culture. During Donahoo’s lifetime, which spanned from the mid-19th to the late 20th century, religious symbols like the crucifix held deep cultural significance, particularly within communities marked by colonialism. The artist focuses on the object's details: the figure of Christ, the tiered base, and the contrasting textures. This isn’t just a drawing of a religious object; it’s an exploration of the emotional weight such objects carry. The crucifix is a symbol of suffering and redemption, but also of power and identity. Donahoo invites us to consider how these symbols function in our lives. The artwork stands as a testament to the ways personal faith intertwines with broader historical narratives. It encourages us to reflect on the stories we tell ourselves through the objects we hold sacred.