Project Details
Inspired Artisans worked closely with Catholic Cemeteries of Chicago to develop a monumental depiction of Our Lady of Guadalupe, envisioned as a central devotional presence within the cemetery landscape. From the outset, the process was collaborative, allowing the design to evolve thoughtfully as ideas were tested against both the spiritual intent and the physical setting.
As the concept developed, the project grew in both scale and ambition, ultimately becoming a 25-foot-tall sculptural composition. What began as a more traditional approach took on greater material richness. The figure of Our Lady emerged in bronze as the central element—grounded, enduring, and reverent. Surrounding her, the familiar rays and mandorla were reinterpreted through a combination of stainless steel and dalle de verre glass, introducing both structure and light. This interplay of materials allows the piece to shift throughout the day, as light moves across the glass and reflects off the steel, reinforcing the sense of radiance associated with the image.
A significant part of the process centered on establishing a fitting foundation. Rather than a fabricated base, the decision was made to use a natural boulder—something substantial enough to anchor the monument both physically and symbolically. Together with the client, the Inspired Artisans team traveled to Stevens Point, Wisconsin, where the stone was personally selected for its scale and character.
The boulder, originally measuring roughly 8.5 feet in each dimension and weighing approximately 67,000 pounds, required careful preparation. It was transported to Wausau, Wisconsin, where it was cut to create a flat top and bottom, ensuring stability and proper integration with the sculpture. Through this process, its weight was reduced to approximately 54,000 pounds, while preserving its natural presence.
The completed composition brings together bronze, stainless steel, glass, and stone into a unified whole. Each material retains its own character, yet contributes to a single purpose: to create a place of encounter—visually striking at a distance and contemplative up close.
Two sided relief of bronze, stainless steel, faceted glass atop boulder - 25 feet tall
St. Casimir Cemetery - 4401 W. 111th Street, Chicago, IL 60655