Iona before 1871

Stephen Thompson presents us with "Iona," an etching of a place steeped in spiritual and historical resonance. The most dominant symbol is, of course, the abbey itself, a beacon that has, since the early Middle Ages, represented faith, learning, and community. We see such structures echo throughout history – from the fortified monasteries of Armenia to the isolated temples of Japan. Consider how the architecture of religious sites often conveys a sense of aspiration, striving towards the divine. The tower, reaching skyward, appears across cultures as a symbol of power and connection to the heavens. The cyclical pattern of destruction and renewal is ever-present; Iona, repeatedly raided by Vikings, was rebuilt each time, embodying the resilience of faith. It’s a symbol that resurfaces, each time carrying the collective memory of those who came before. Consider the emotional weight of such places, engaging us on a subconscious level, reminding us of humanity’s enduring quest for meaning.